bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hebron Offshore Development Project Overview
Authors: Wolfe K. J. , Parker G. J. , Sellars S. L.
Published: April 2018

The Hebron Offshore Development Project, offshore Eastern Canada, is one of the world's most ambitious oil projects. In November 2017 ExxonMobil Canada Properties (EMCP) commenced oil production from this world scale engineering marvel located in 93m of water approximately 350 kilometers southeast of St. John's NL in an area known as the Grand Banks.

The Hebron platform consists of a Gravity Based Structure (GBS) with a storage capacity of 1.2 million barrels of oil and an integrated steel topsides structure. The integrated topsides design with total operating weight capacity of ~65,000 t contains drilling and production facilities with a peak production capacity of 150,000 barrels per day (bpd) and a living quarters for 220 people. The field infrastructure also includes a subsea Offshore Loading System (OLS) providing crude offloading capability to tankers and a fiber optic cable loop linking the offshore platform to an onshore network enabling enhanced digital technology implementation. The project was sanctioned on 31 December 2012 and first oil occurred on 27 November 2017, ahead of schedule.

This paper discusses the Project from design through execution and highlights several of the unique design features, execution sequence and specific challenges which were faced. Special technologies were employed and project management initiatives implemented which enabled the success of the project.
Automated Remote Monitoring of Offshore Assets Using Satellite Imagery and Machine Learning
Authors: Araujo Maria S. , Davila Daniel S. , Blaisdell Samantha G. , Van Horn Adam
Published: April 2018

Satellite imaging technology continues to progress toward providing reliable, real-time remote monitoring of offshore asset health and safety. The fast growth of satellite constellations which offer high-resolution observation data over all weather conditions generates opportunities to monitor, predict, and report on a variety of incidents. This paper discusses a new satellite imaging monitoring technology with a case study focus on marine oil slick detection.

Currently, typical applications of this technology face several limitations common to many remote sensors, such as reliance on a human-in-the-loop and the limitations imposed by individual sensors onboard a weight- and downlink-limited spacecraft. This paper discusses recent work in which deep learning was applied to multiple satellite imagery streams operating in different spectral bands to automatically detect oil slicks on the ocean surface. Different imagery streams were registered in space and time to create multidimensional composite images. These images were then used to train a deep neural network classifier to detect if oil is present or not present.

The results of this work demonstrate that it is now possible to overcome several key limitations of satellite sensing technology. First, by leveraging multiple satellite sensors in parallel, both primary sensing modalities can be used to overcome the shortcomings of either. Second, initial results from the output of the machine learning classifier will be presented, showing that it is both feasible and advantageous to trust an algorithm for automatically monitoring offshore assets for leak events. When the human is removed from the loop, the time and cost it would have taken to manually review satellite imagery are significantly reduced, in turn increasing efficiency and operability. Lastly, additional potential applications that this work enables will be discussed.

Multispectral imagery fusion overcomes the individual limitations of the sensors for oil slick detection and asset monitoring. Machine learning overcomes the human-in-the-loop limitations, allowing for reliable, automated, and large-scale monitoring necessary for offshore applications.
DeepStar Technology Advancement Related to Floating Systems and Operations Impact
Authors: Gomes Joseph , Shamshy Shakir
Published: April 2018

DeepStar® is an operator funded offshore Technology Development consortium which provides an open collaboration environment between oil & gas (O&G) companies, vendors, regulators and academic/research institutes which started in 1991. This program has been on the forefront offshore knowledge and technology development within the oil and gas industry, with a focus on issues related to continuous operations, flow assurance and industry standards. The program has progressed in the industry, the understanding and mitigation techniques pertaining to hydrate blockage and with the advancement of modeling software, preventative measurements, and chemical treatment has allowed the industry to move from hydrate avoidance to a hydrate management strategy. The program continues to advance the hydrate blockage remediation tools available to the industry by providing an update to modeling software related to multi salt reservoir hydrate modeling or proposing deployable hydrate blockage remediation tools in case of a prolonged shutdown.

Under the lower for longer oil price environment, a quest for a step change cost reduction solution is an active discussion amongst the industry, highlighted above being able to reduce downtime due to flow assurance issues is one important topic, although as asset age another topic of continued service become an ever-evolving topic. DeepStar has worked extensively on this topic for many years advancing the industry dialogue and assisting with updated industry standard related to integrity management related to floating systems, mooring lines, and risers. Highlighted within this discussion is the industry project on Riser Integrity Management reviewing the industry program framework and future riser database that is being developed. For most facilities the riser component is the most expensive portion of floating production systems and once the riser is retired the facility is decommissioned.
Re-Shaping LNG Transfer
Authors: Lagarrigue Vincent , Hermary James
Published: April 2018

The LNG market remains in relative infancy in terms of the development of infrastructure to meet increasing supply and demand. Given its unique make-up compared to traditional oil and gas transposition, new and innovative means of transferring LNG have had to emerge; factoring the unique composition of LNG (i.e. chemical and physical properties) and the critical importance of safety while loading and unloading.

Moreover, LNG Infrastructure is moving into new frontiers for a variety of reasons. LNG exporters are seeking new markets and evolution of small and medium scale LNG demand will necessitate splitting of LNG into smaller load parcels. Power generation, and LNG terminals, are being constructed in locations that have traditionally been ‘off-grid’ – disconnected from pipelines. More flexible options are required to fit a broader range of vessel sizes, locations, weather conditions and infrastructure conditions.

One key element in unlocking new transfer options is fresh thinking around ship-to-shore transfer and the development of game-changing floating composite cryogenic hose technology.

Composite LNG hoses typically consist of multiple, unbonded, polymeric film and woven fabric layers encapsulated between two stainless steel wire helices – one internal and one external. Essentially, the film layers provide a fluid-tight barrier to the conveyed product, with the mechanical strength of the hose coming from woven fabric layers. The number and arrangement of multiple polymeric film and woven fabric layers is specific to the hose size and application. The polymeric film and fabric materials are selected to be compatible with the conveyed product and the operating temperatures likely to be encountered.

This technology cost-effective technology has enabled a recalibration of traditional thinking around ship-to-shore LNG transfer. Designed for fatigue resistance in even the most hazardous conditions, cryogenic floating hose technology typically provides a viable alternative to traditional jetty-based transference in circumstances that would make such infrastructure unfeasible – for example, harsh environments, areas where water is too deep to accommodate jetty construction, or too shallow to allow large vessels to moor alongside.

These cryogenic hoses also expand options for offshore ship-to-ship transfers in a broader range of locations; for example, in tandem configuration, vessels can be moored as much as 300 to 500 meters away from a storage unit. This enables ship-to-ship transfer in deeper waters in even the most challenging conditions - with the increased separation distance mitigating the risk of collision and ensuring the safety of the vessels and crew.

In this paper, we will discuss the multiple applications of cryogenic floating hose technology and how it is re-shaping ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship transfer.
Design and Operation of Coupled Mooring System for Tender-Assisted Drilling at Malikai TLP
Authors: Kota Ravikiran , Amurol Sharizal , Tan–Sabah Hugo
Published: April 2018

Malikai field, located offshore Malaysia at a water depth of 500 m, was brought on stream in December 2016. The field is developed using tender-assisted drilling and completions from a Tension Leg Platform (TLP) – a first in Malaysia. The TLP is a conventional 4-column, ring-pontoontype hull structure that connects to asemi-submersible type TAD vessel through nylon hawser ropes which together with chain-polyester-wiremoorings on the TAD and TLP allow for station-keeping during drilling operations. This paper describes the design, analysis and operational experience of the coupled TLP-TAD mooring system. Design of the coupled mooring-hawser system was driven by the need to not only keep TLP excursion limits for risers but to also maintain the gangway within its stroke limits. In addition, there was a need to move the TLP over short distances by winching the TLP and TAD moorings to facilitate latching of the top-tensioned risers and to maximize drilling uptime. Understanding the strongly nonlinear stiffness behavior of nylon rope was crucial in ascertaining these safety and functional requirements. Several numerical simulations were performed and were supplemented by wave-basin and rope stiffness tests during design validation. Marine instrumentation systems were incorporated on the TLP from which real time environmental data, TLP and TAD conditions, and mooring and hawser tensions are obtained. These measurements are used to calibrate numerical models for mooring advisory. Station keeping during drilling operations were managed through daily interface between offshore and onshore teams for winching plans recommendations for TLP repositioning and to predict station keeping responses based on short-term weather forecasts. Collaborative interface with the risers, wells and facility-operations teams has proved valuable in safe and effective station keeping during the drilling campaign.
Temporary Coating for Dissolving Frac-Balls Used in Multi-Stage Fracturing Systems
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Hernaez Erwin D. , Sanchez James S. , Xu Zhiyue
Published: April 2018

One challenge with dissolving frac-balls used in remote multi-stage fracturing systems is their premature disintegration in the ball-launcher used for the deployment of balls downhole. As a solution, a "temporary" coating was developed which prevents disintegration of frac-balls until they land on the desired ball-seat downhole. The current paper discusses laboratory tests conducted to qualify the coating.

Two types of corrosion resistant coatings were studied: phenolic based and aliphatic based epoxy. Laboratory tests were conducted to verify that the coatings satisfied service requirements: coating remained intact in the ball launcher filled with frac-fluid for a few days, ball maintained its pressure rating even after extended exposure in the frac-fluid, and the ball disintegrated to the outer diameter, which enabled the ball to fall through its associated seat within a week. In-situ tests comparing disintegration rates of coated and uncoated balls were conducted to determine if coating interferes with the eventual disintegration of the frac-balls downhole.

Results showed that the phenolic coating provided better protection to the frac-balls than the aliphatic coating. Further, a thick coating must be applied to prevent any disintegration of the frac-balls in the launcher, because thin coating failed locally along the microscopic defects. Pressure test results demonstrated that the coated balls formed a tight seal with the seat up to its pressure rating. After landing on the ball seat the coating failed, allowing the frac-ball to disintegrate per the service requirement, and fall through the seat in a timely manner. Thus, it is concluded that phenolic based epoxy coating can be used to protect the dissolving frack-balls in hydraulic fracturing tools.
FLNG - Pushing the Boundary of Existing Practices
Authors: Abe Shigeru , Ishizaki Hiroyuki , Uchida Hirokatsu , Nitta Kotaro
Published: April 2018

In the history of FLNG development there were significant achievements recently, with symbolic events, namely the Petronas FLNG Satu started her LNG production in December 2016 in Malaysia and the Prelude FLNG having been sailed away to her destination in Australia in mid-2017. Since the concept of floating LNG was discussed by the industry in the 1990's, it has taken nearly three decades for the dream to come true through the resolution of technical and commercial challenges. The Petronas FLNG2 and the Eni Coral South FLNG will follow, to be delivered together with LNG carrier conversion solutions. The authors together with their colleagues have been deeply involved in all phases of the development programme, from concept selection, definition and execution in delivery of the majority of these projects. This paper captures our actual experience, challenges and lessons learned, and address our observations to facilitate further improvements and enhancements in project delivery, competitiveness, quality and safety.
Qualification of the HighBoost Multiphase Pump for Heavy Oil Applications
Authors: Knudsen Halfdan Rognes , Bibet Pierre-Jean , Ekeberg Ina , Marthinussen Svein Arne , Kjellnes Hans Fredrik , Torbergsen Erik Andre
Published: April 2018

Some of the world's largest reserves are heavy oil reservoirs, defined as liquid petroleum of less than 20°API gravity or more than 0.2 Pa.s (200 cP) at reservoir conditions, [4]. Production of heavy oil in combination with increasing water cut (WC) brings a potential for very high emulsion viscosities. In combination with gas, the high viscosity provides operating conditions highly challenging to multiphase subsea pumps.

In 2013, OneSubsea was awarded the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for Total's Moho 1bis development in the Republic of the Congo in West Africa. The contract included a subsea pump station with two 3.5 MW HighBoost pumps (helico-axial multiphase pump with balance piston) capable of handling high viscosities and gas volume fractions (GVFs).

As part of the Moho project, and to qualify the HighBoost technology for high viscosities, a full-scale test loop was built to verify pump performance at liquid viscosities up to 0.8 Pa.s (800cP). To cover the complete Moho operating range 0.001-0.8 Pa.s (1-800cP) and 0-75% GVF, the first article pump was tested on nitrogen and three different liquids: water, hydraulic oil, and gear oil. An extended analysis on the performance of helico-axial pumps in this unexplored domain of laminar and transition flow regimes was carried out.

Extensive amounts of test data were gathered during the 2-year qualification period. After testing and design optimization, the pump performance was significantly higher than predicted. The knowledge gained also served as valuable input to the pump protection logics customized for high-viscosity pumping. During the program the pump has proven its ability to perform startups on viscosities up to 30 Pa.s (30,000cP).

Qualification of this technology for high viscosity has widely extended the domain of high power, high flow and high differential pressure (dP) helico-axial multiphase pumps. Along with their proven track record in deep water and long step-out distances, the ability to pump high-viscosity fluid will enable future development of other heavy oil reserves going forward. The pump system described in this paper was successfully installed, commissioned, and started during the spring of 2017 to boost the viscous production. As of January 2018, it has been running with 100% availability following the startup.
How to Improve Sweep Efficiency of Horizontal Wells for Offshore Fluvial Oil Reservoir by ICD Inflow Control Device
Authors: He Yifan , Shi Hongfu , Luo Xianbo
Published: April 2018

This paper discusses the development challenges of an offshore fluvial oil reservoir with horizontal well. In highly productive sandstone reservoirs, horizontal wells suffer from uneven flow profile and subsequent premature coning effects because of sand heterogeneity and heel to toe effect. Moreover, excessively increasing the rate or horizontal well length can increase the risk of limiting sweep efficiency, resulting in bypassed remaining oil in the toe or poor sand with low permeability. Firstly, we anlayse the characters of fluvial oil reservoir focusing on architecture and heterogeneity. Secondly, the sweep efficiency was calculated by the production data of existing horizontal wells. Lastly, we optimize ICD (inflow control device) for several wells and compare the response of ICD wells with standalone wells.
Modular Integration Platform – Submerged Production Unit for Large Subsea Plants
Authors: Daasvatn Sigbjørn , Juhlin Rasmus , Sæterdal Morten
Published: April 2018

Installation of large subsea processing systems requires expensive specialist offshore construction and heavy-lift vessels. An alternative to larger lifted structures is towed structures.

A cost-effective, versatile and open technology platform alternative has been developed, starting from the experience based on the design and installation of towed pipeline bundles for more than 35-years /1, 2/. Together with experiences from design, installation and operation of subsea plants and with the application of new materials, this has led to the new Submerged Production Unit (SPU) concept.

This paper describes how the SPU, in combination with a modularised integration principle for payloads, can be applied for extensive industry collaboration on integration of existing and new subsea technologies to form large subsea production solutions replacing surface based production solutions.
Model-Centric Digital Subsea Pipeline Design Process and Framework
Authors: Laye A. , Victoire K. , Cocault-Duverger V.
Published: April 2018

This paper describes a development initiative intended to reduce significantly design cost and duration using digitalization. Subsea pipeline design, and in-place studies in particular, is a complex process that is broken down into a systematic sequence of calculations, all connected to a normalized and serialized meta model. The pipeline digital data model is interpreted by a framework that distributes and collects design data to various algorithms and software, thus automating the entire pipeline design workflow down to production of standardized design reports.

The implementation of such an objective requires:

Developing a systematic design methodology, covering industry standards as well as the client's special requirements, under a "one-size-fits-most" process; Standardizing a data model serving as a meta-model to necessary models and solvers; Standardizing data format and exchange protocol so that all models are served with required inputs and instructions; Coding design procedures as unitary applications collecting inputs from and relaying relevant results to the data model; Integrating applications into a framework that serves inputs and collects outputs from models and calculations to produce final standardized reports.

 

 

Design reports with input data, results and methodology are automatically created or updated under various file formats or templates. Engineering productivity is improved drastically and the impact of rework is minimized. The productivity gain is multiplied when the design is still in the early stage and when multiple multi-disciplinary design cycles, including the stakeholder's review, are necessary.
Integration of Lwd and Geochemistry from Cuttings Measurements for Well Placement Based on Real Time Diagenesis Characterization
Authors: Camilo Mejia , Giorgio Nardi , Iain Drew
Published: April 2018

Field development of a reservoir generally involves the drilling of extended reach wells for maximum hydrocarbon exposure and productivity. In a conventional reservoir, porous and permeable formations support fluid movement under the influence of a drive mechanism (generally water or gas) and wells are normally positioned high up in the structure for maximum recovery. In contrast, an unconventional reservoir is typically heterogeneous with hydrocarbons trapped within diagenetic horizons that may lie anywhere within the structure.

The challenge in an unconventional reservoir is to identify a productive zone where heterogeneity exists at a microscale which is beyond the resolution and visibility of traditional LWD and wireline sensors. These properties could be identified directly from core samples in a laboratory environment but repetitive coring in an extended reach well is unfeasible. However the advent of portable micro-scale measurements (x-ray diffraction XRD, x-ray fluorescence XRF, pyrolysis, scanning electron microscopy SEM and nuclear magnetic resonance NMR, total organic content) has made it possible to obtain core quality measurements from drilled cuttings at the wellsite.

By combining LWD and advanced cuttings analysis at the wellsite a unique solution is provided for the unconventional reservoir challenge. LWD provides larger scale stratigraphic positioning, boundary monitoring and reservoir model updating, while cuttings analysis provides confirmation that the wellbore is being drilled and tracked within the correct target layer.

In the described example we demonstrate the practical application of this approach in a limestone reservoir with considerable heterogeneity. Comprehensive data from the pilot well (including core) was combined to generate an earth model. Detailed core analysis including; elemental, chemostratigraphy, mineralogy, petrology, total organic carbon, density, porosity and permeability, was then used to identify the target zone.

LWD azimuthal resistivity was used to steer and land the wellbore within the reservoir and then to monitor distance-to-bed boundary for the cap rock. With the reservoir formation possessing low natural radioactivity and low contrast resistivity, advanced cuttings analysis enabled steering decisions to be made based on microscale variables including elemental abundance and elemental ratios such as As:Cr, Mg:Mn, SiO2:Al2O3, and Ga:Rb. The well was successfully drilled and positioned within the target layer for maximum recovery.

Restricted fluid mobility and constrained drive mechanisms within unconventional reservoirs result in recovery factors being much lower than for a conventional case. Secondary or tertiary recovery suddenly becomes comparable to the primary recovery. Micro-scale information required for an enhanced recovery strategy is already provided by the advanced cuttings analysis acquired during the drilling of the initial well.
The Giant Lula Field: World's Largest Oil Production in Ultra-Deep Water Under a Fast-Track Development
Authors: Rosa Marcelo Becher , Cavalcante José Sérgio de Araújo , Miyakawa Tetsuo Mineiro , Freitas Luiz Carlos Soares de
Published: April 2018

Slightly more than 10 years after its discovery, Lula Field has the world's largest oil production in ultra-deep waters. This impressive goal was achieved through a robust reservoir-oriented strategy to minimize risks and maximize value during the fast-track development of this giant field. The strategy used in the development of the Lula Field, which aims at attaining a recoverable oil volume of billions of barrels, is described in this work. The methodology applied encompasses four steps. The first step consists on performing an adequate data acquisition during exploratory and early development phases. The acquired data guided the second step, which is the implementation of pilot projects to gather important dynamic information and to anticipate profits. The third step is the deployment of definitive production systems based on robust drainage strategies, built under different reservoir scenarios. The fourth step is production management through the application of innovative technologies in ultra-deep offshore environment, such as water alternating gas (WAG) wells, 4D seismic monitoring, and massive use of intelligent completion. Seismic data and special processing enabled the identification and characterization of the reservoirs located under a thick saline formation. The drilling of reservoir data acquisition wells along with extended well tests was important to appraise critical reservoir regions and to verify communication between different reservoir zones. Extensive fluid sampling and advanced thermodynamic modeling allowed the understanding of Lula Fields complex fluids. Two pilot projects were positioned over 20 km apart from each other on this extensive reservoir, allowing interference tests between the pilots and new drilled wells. Afterwards, eight following production systems were conceived using previously acquired data and flexibilities to accomplish modifications into the project based on new information acquired during the drilling campaign. An example of this flexibility strategy was the empowerment of the reservoir team to propose a specific well drilling sequence and schedule. This allowed the use of newly obtained information from one well to the next, even in a fast track development scenario, in order to optimize productivity and sweep of the reservoir. At last, the reservoir management has already presented promising results related to the control of injected and produced fluids in FPSOs with longer production history. The steps herein presented allowed the successful development of Lula Field, which has nowadays seven FPSOs producing around 800 kbpd. The most recent FPSO started operation in May 2017 and is still ramping up. Together with the remaining FPSOs to be deployed, it is expected that Lula Field will reach a peak of production of around 1 million bpd. Such production levels were never achieved before in a single ultra-deep water field.
Effective Asset Integrity in a $50 a Barrel World
Authors: Wilson Mark , McCready Dallas
Published: April 2018

With current market conditions keeping the price of oil below $100 a barrel for the foreseeable future, offshore asset owners and operators have become increasingly focused on cost reductions for maintenance and inspection. In turn, the emphasis on cost reductions has presented an even bigger challenge: ensuring that asset integrity is maintained at satisfactory levels that reduce the risk of safety while still benefiting from cost savings.

Traditional methods of inspection and maintenance offered at a lower cost has proven to be the wrong solution as the value in these services has been significantly reduced. By implementing disruptive inspection and maintenance technologies, asset integrity can be effectively managed in a way that is safer and provides better data than traditional methods; all while providing long-term cost savings by minimizing POB (personnel on-board) and reducing major maintenance.

These technologies and methods include: Utilization of high definition cameras, laser scanners and ROVs (remote operated vehicles) for tank inspections which significantly reduces, and in many cases, eliminates the need for personnel entry into tanks (i.e. cargo oil, ballast water, potable water tanks).Hot-tapping into live sea water systems and hull plating (while vessels are still in operation) in order to deploy cameras, pipe plugs and anodes which eliminate or significantly reduce the need for divers or ROVs (remote operated vehicles) in the following applications: external hull bottom surveys, isolation valve repair, and ICCP (impressed current cathodic protection) anode maintenance.Utilization of ROVs and crawlers with cleaning and measuring tools (callipers, photogrammetry tools) for class required mooring chain inspections which eliminates the use of divers.Utilization of non-evasive tools such as Real Time Radiography, Digital Radiography and Backscatter Computed Tomography to inspect composite wrap repairs and corrosion under insulation for insulated piping and pressure systems, eliminating the requirement to removal & reinstallation of insulation.
Thermoplastic Composite Riser Development for Ultradeep Water
Authors: Smits Alexander , Neto Teofilo Barbosa , Boer Henk de
Published: April 2018

Thermoplastic composite pipes (TCP) is a fully bonded pipe structure with a solid wall construction constituted from a single polymer material reinforced with embedded (melt-fused) fibre reinforcements. DNV GL published in December 2015, the new Recommended Practice DNVGL-RP-F119, intended for the design and qualification of Thermoplastic Composite Pipes in offshore applications. This paper describes Airborne Oil & Gas approach to qualifying its ultradeep water TCP products to the new standard.

Because of its intrinsic properties, including being lightweight, spoolable, and collapse and corrosion resistant, TCP is very much suited for riser applications. After applications such as a 1" high pressure methanol injection jumper in the North Sea, a 6" flowline for hydrocarbon conveyance off the coast of Sarawak, Malaysia, and a 2" gas lift line in the North Sea, Airborne Oil & Gas has now started the development of TCP for high pressure high temperature dynamic production riser applications.

A typical offshore Brazil pre-salt field ultradeep water design premise has been used to assess the feasibility of 6" and 8" free hanging TCP Risers. This was done in close cooperation with a major operator in Brazil and SURF contractor. Global, installation and local analyses of the TCP Riser system have shown the feasibility of installation as well as operations in a free hanging catenary configuration throughout the 30 years’ service life.

After technical feasibility had been demonstrated, a detailed business case study was performed in order to quantify the potential CAPEX savings that TCP technology can bring compared to the low lazy wave systems currently installed in pre-salt fields, offshore Brazil. Considerable savings are expected, especially on pipe procurement costs. Further savings on OPEX are also expected and are related to corrosion and biocide inhibition operations.
Aspects of political theology in the spiritual autobiography of Dag Hammarskjöld
Authors: Iuliu-Marius Morariu
Published: April 2018

An important personality of the Swedish cultural space and of the world diplomatic space, Dag Hammarskjöld (1905–1961), left to posterity, besides his literary works, his economic and diplomatic contributions, the most important spiritual autobiography from the Swedish protestant space of the 20th century. Discovered shortly after his death and published by his disciples in 1963 in an English version in London (at Faber and Faber Publishing House), Markings presents the struggle of the author with himself, illustrated in a great diversity of styles, from haiku poems to short meditations, pastels (lyrics or prose), biblical exegeses and so on. Apart from the description of his spiritual life, his relationship with God, or his conception of spiritual issues, the work also contains some interesting references to aspects of political theology. These aspects represent the subject of our research. After a short presentation of his life and activity and of the influence of his family on his education, we will try to present the way in which aspects of political theology are emphasised in the aforementioned work and which are some important elements of the author’s conception of this subject. In this respect, we will resort not only to his spiritual autobiography, but also to the most important writings about him, published by specialists in diplomacy, literature and politics. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find theologians who wrote about his spiritual autobiography (except some who talk about him in theological dictionaries). Therefore, one of the main strengths of this research will be the fact that it presents a theological approach to Dag Hammarskjöld.
Community resilience to floods in the coastal zone for disaster risk reduction
Authors: Isa Muzakar , Sugiyanto F. X. , Susilowati Indah
Published: April 2018

The northern coast of the Central Java province is considered to be the critical area of flood path. The area is vulnerable to floods because of incessant rain and/or sea-level rise, resulting in suffering to people and the deterioration of the ecosystem. A number of measures have been implemented to manage the problem of floods, although the results are not noteworthy. It is obvious that infrastructure capacity for flood control, community awareness and other multiple factors significantly contribute to averting the problem of flooding in the area. This study aimed to determine the level of flood-zone vulnerability, the level of community resilience to floods and the influence of vulnerability aspects on community resilience. Interviews were conducted to outline the resilience model. A quantitative method was employed to analyse the data. The results of this study indicated that the exposure aspect is the greatest variable in describing flood vulnerability. At the same time, the greatest variables determining community resilience are damages, followed by losses and personal casualties. Among the flood vulnerability aspects are the exposure and adaptive capacities that determine the community resilience of the northern coast of Central Java.
Delineating risk zones and evaluation of shelter centres for flood disaster management along the Pahang River Basin, Malaysia
Authors: Isahak Anizan , Reza Mohammad I.H. , Siwar Chamhuri , Ismail Shaharuddin M. , Sulaiman Norela , Hanafi Zulkifli , Zainuddin Mohd S. , Taha Mohd R.
Published: April 2018

Shelter centres are important locations to safeguard people from helpless situations and are an integral part of disaster risk reduction (DRR), particularly for flood DRR. The establishment of shelter centres, and their design based on scientific assessment, is crucial. Yet, they are very much related to the geographic location, socio-economic conditions and the livelihoods of the affected communities. However, many parts of the developing world are still lagging behind in ensuring such scientific design. Considering the flood disaster in 2014 that affected the residents living along the Pahang River Basin, in this study we delineate the communities at risk and evaluate the existing shelter centres to determine how they reduce people’s vulnerability to the risks associated with rural and urban landscapes. We used spatial analysis tools to delineate risk zones and to evaluate existing evacuation systems. A flood disaster risk map was produced to determine which communities are living with risks. Subsequently, the distribution of shelter centres examined whether they are able to support people living at the flood risk zones. These centres were also evaluated using a set of international guidelines for effective disaster shelters. This reveals that the number of shelter centres is not adequate. The designation and designing of shelter centres are not being done scientifically. The maps produced here have a lot of potential to support disaster management decisions, in particular site selection and the prioritisation of centres. The study concludes with a set of guidelines and recommendations for structural and non-structural measures, such as alternative livelihoods and the potential of ecotourism, which may improve the resilience among flood-affected communities; and the decision-making process for the overall flood DRR initiatives.
Informal financial transactions and monetary policy in low-income countries: Interpolated informal credit and interest rates in Malawi
Authors: Ngalawa Harold
Published: April 2018

Background: Official monetary data usually exclude informal financial transactions although the informal financial sector (IFS) forms a large part of the financial sector in low-income countries. Aim and setting: Excluding informal financial transactions in official monetary data, however, underestimates the volume of financial transactions and incorrectly presents the cost of credit, bringing into question the accuracy of expected effects of monetary policy on economic activity. Methods: Using IFS data for Malawi constructed from two survey data sets, indigenous knowledge and elements of Friedman’s data interpolation technique, this study employs innovation accounting in a structural vector autoregressive model to compare monetary policy outcomes when IFS data are taken into account and when they are not. Results: The study finds evidence that in certain instances, the formal and informal financial sectors complement each other. For example, it is observed that the rate of inflation as well as output increase following a rise in either formal financial sector (FFS) or IFS lending. Further investigation reveals that in other cases, the FFS and IFS work in conflict with each other. Demonstrating this point, the study finds that a rise in FFS interest rates is followed by a decline in FFS lending while IFS lending does not respond significantly and the response of FFS and IFS loans combined is insignificant. When IFS interest rates are raised, total loans decline significantly. Conclusion: The study, therefore, concludes that exclusion of IFS transactions from official monetary data has the potential to frustrate monetary policy through wrong inferences on the impact of monetary policy on economic activity.
Psychological Capital: Convergent and discriminant validity of a reconfigured measure
Authors: Grobler Anton , Joubert Yvonne T.
Published: April 2018

Background: Although attention has been given to the importance of positivity in the workplace, it has only recently been proposed as a new way in which to focus on organisational behaviour. The psychological resources which meet the criteria for positive organisational behaviour best are hope, self-efficacy, optimism and resilience. Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate the construct validity of the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ), with specific reference to its psychometric properties. Setting: The sample included a total of 1749 respondents, 60 each from 30 organisations in South Africa. Methods: A multi-factorial model was statistically explored and confirmed (with exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, respectively). Results: The results support the original conceptualisation and empirically-confirmed factorial composition of Psychological Capital (PsyCap) by four elements, namely Hope, Optimism, Resilience and Self-efficacy. However, the study yielded a three-factor solution, with Hope and Optimism as a combined factor and Resilience and Self-efficacy made up of a reconfigured set of substantively justifiable items (three of the original 24 items were found not to be suitable). The three reconfigured factors showed good psychometric properties, good fit (in support of construct validity) and acceptable levels of convergent and discriminant validity. Recommendations were made for further studies. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, it seems that the PCQ is a suitable (valid and reliable) instrument for measuring PsyCap. This study could thus serve as a reference for the accurate measurement of PsyCap.
The relationship between remuneration and financial performance for companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange
Authors: Kirsten Elize , Du Toit Elda
Published: April 2018

Background: The executive directors of a company are the agents of the shareholders and should manage the company in the best interest of the shareholders, not only for personal gain. It is therefore important for companies to ensure that they implement remuneration policies which will result in motivated employees who will execute decisions and actions which are in the best interest of the shareholders. However, it is widely acknowledged that the relationship between company performance and executive remuneration is weak. This implies that executives are still rewarded excessive remuneration regardless of the performance of their companies. Aim: The purpose of this study was to determine whether a relationship exists between the performance-based remuneration of executive directors and the financial performance of South African companies. Setting: The study was conducted in South Africa, specifically on companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Methods: The study design was quantitative and made use of a Pearson correlation and generalised least squares regression with bootstrapping at a 95% confidence interval to analyse the relationship between executive director remuneration and the financial performance of 42 companies in the consumer goods and services industry of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) from 2006 to 2015. Results: The study established that the remuneration policies in place for South African executive directors within the consumer goods and services industry seem to be affected by the share price of the company. Conclusion: In the South African environment, executive director remuneration is thus not directly related to profitability or company size, as was the case in some earlier studies. The link between executive director remuneration and share performance may be an indication that remuneration policies are based on the share price and are thus directly connected to the principle of shareholder wealth maximisation.
Tales of the unexpected: Integrating career shocks in the contemporary careers literature
Authors: Akkermans Jos , Seibert Scott E. , Mol Stefan T.
Published: April 2018

Orientation: This article addresses the interplay between individual agency and contextual factors in contemporary career development processes. In light of the prominence of the former in the contemporary scholarly debate, we present a case for a more comprehensive approach by heeding the latter as well. Research purpose: The main aim of this article was to provide a definition and conceptualisation of career shocks, as well as an agenda for future research on this topic. Motivation for the study: Most of the contemporary careers literature has overemphasised the role of individual agency in career development. While certainly important, we argue that we also need to address the role of context – in this case, career shocks – in order to gain a fuller appreciation of career development processes. Main conclusions and implications: We provide a definition of career shocks based on the existing literature related to chance events and turnover. In addition, we provide an overview of attributes of career shocks, potentially valuable theoretical perspectives and key issues for future research. Contribution: This article brings together several existing streams of literature related to career shocks and provides an integrative definition and conceptualisation. We hope that this will ignite future research on an important but often overlooked topic.
Magnetic resonance imaging of classified and unclassified Müllerian duct anomalies: Comparison of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology classifications
Authors: Jegannathan Devimeenal , Indiran Venkatraman
Published: April 2018

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), due to its optimal delineation of anatomy, has become the mainstay in imaging for diagnosing Müllerian duct anomalies (MDA). Pelvic MRI is requested for various conditions such as primary amenorrhoea, infertility or poor obstetric history with regard to MDA, as identifying the exact aetiology for these conditions is vital. Knowledge regarding the classification of MDA is important, as the treatment varies with respect to the different classes. As all the lesions do not fit within the classification of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, a new anatomy-based classification was established by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the European Society for Gynecological Endoscopy, to fulfil the needs of experts. We aim to discuss various classes of classified and unclassified MDA with regard to both the above-mentioned classifications and illustrate some of them using various cases based on pelvic MRI studies.
Сходимость построчных последовательностей одновременных аппроксимаций Паде-Фабера
Authors: Bosuwan Nattapong
Published: April 2018

В статье рассматриваются построчные последовательности
векторно-значных аппроксимаций Паде-Фабера
(одновременных аппроксимацией Паде-Фабера)
и доказывается теорема типа теоремы Монтессу де Боллора.
Библиография: 8 названий.
Об одном подходе к вычислению асимптотики интегралов от быстроменяющихся функций
Authors: Dobrokhotov Sergey Yur'evich , Nazaikinskii Vladimir Evgen'evich , Tsvetkova Anna Valerievna
Published: April 2018

Рассматриваются интегралы вида
$$
I(x,h)=\frac{1}{(2\pi h)^{k/2}}\int_{\mathbb{R}^k}
f(\frac{S(x,\theta)}{h} ,x,\theta) d\theta,
$$
где $h$ - малый положительный параметр, $S(x,\theta)$ и
$f(\tau,x,\theta)$ - гладкие функции переменных
$\tau\in\mathbb{R}$, $x\in\mathbb{R}^n$, $\theta\in\mathbb{R}^k$,
причем $S(x,\theta)$ вещественная, а $f(\tau,x,\theta)$
быстро убывает при $|\tau|\to\infty$. Предлагается подход
к вычислению асимптотики таких интегралов при $h\to0$
с помощью абстрактного метода стационарной фазы.
Библиография: 12 названий.
Dynamics and composition of the Asian summer monsoon anticyclone
Authors: Gottschaldt Klaus-Dirk , Schlager Hans , Baumann Robert , Cai Duy Sinh , Eyring Veronika , Graf Phoebe , Grewe Volker , Jöckel Patrick , Jurkat-Witschas Tina , Voigt Christiane , Zahn Andreas , Ziereis Helmut
Published: April 2018

Abstract. This study places HALO research aircraft observations in the
upper-tropospheric Asian summer monsoon anticyclone (ASMA) into the context
of regional, intra-annual variability by hindcasts with the ECHAM/MESSy
Atmospheric Chemistry (EMAC) model. The observations were obtained during the
Earth System Model Validation (ESMVal) campaign in September 2012. Observed
and simulated tracer–tracer relations reflect photochemical O3
production as well as in-mixing from the lower troposphere and the tropopause
layer. The simulations demonstrate that tropospheric trace gas profiles in
the monsoon season are distinct from those in the rest of the year, and the
measurements reflect the main processes acting throughout the monsoon season.
Net photochemical O3 production is significantly enhanced in the ASMA,
where uplifted precursors meet increased NOx, mainly produced by
lightning. An analysis of multiple monsoon seasons in the simulation shows
that stratospherically influenced tropopause layer air is regularly entrained
at the eastern ASMA flank and then transported in the southern fringe around
the interior region. Radial transport barriers of the circulation are
effectively overcome by subseasonal dynamical instabilities of the
anticyclone, which occur quite frequently and are of paramount importance for
the trace gas composition of the ASMA. Both the isentropic entrainment of
O3-rich air and the photochemical conversion of uplifted O3-poor
air tend to increase O3 in the ASMA outflow.