bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of IL-4 polymorphism with severe periodontitis in a sample of Iraqi population
Authors: Najah Ayser , Fadhil Raghad , Akram Hadeel Mazin , Salah Rasha
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Specific bacterial plaque and environmental factors cannot be considered the only cause of periodontitis. Still, several genetic factors affect the host response to the bacteria, like gene polymorphisms in anti-inflammatory cytokines. Several studies have reported that clones of T-helper 2 lymphocytes (TH2) are generated in response to dental plaque in periodontitis patients, while in healthy individuals, they are regulated by T-helper 1 (TH1) lymphocytes. Accordingly, such patients consistently produce more IL-4 (TH2) in response to bacterial stimulation, whereas healthy controls with intact periodontal tissues produce a significantly higher level of TH1.

Aim: The current work aimed to investigate the association between variations in IL-4 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to periodontitis.

Materials and methods: The current study employed a case-control observational methodology involving 120 Iraqi participants. These participants were divided into two groups: the periodontitis group, consisting of 63 subjects, and the control group, consisting of 57 subjects. Clinical periodontal parameters were assessed for all participants, and subsequent genetic analysis of IL-4 was conducted using DNA sequencing. Venous blood samples were collected from each participant enrolled in the study. SPSS was used to conduct descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including odds ratio, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and Pearson correlation.

Results: The﻿ Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for study groups regarding the rs1801275 and rs1805016 polymorphisms of IL-4 showed a non-significant difference between the observed and expected genotypes in both groups involved in the study and the overall sample. Moreover, there was no significant association between the IL-4 gene polymorphism and the clinical periodontal parameters.

Conclusion: The research conducted revealed a lack of correlation between IL-4 gene polymorphism and the susceptibility to periodontitis in individuals from Iraq. More research with a bigger sample size is required to validate these findings.
Evaluation of salinity-mediated end-point cytogenotoxicity in Germinating Roots of Lathyrus sativus L., Variety Mahatora.: Bio-assay guided biomarker studies
Authors: Adhikari Dipan , Ghosh Rahul , Dig Sagar
Published: April 2024

Pulse crops are susceptible to salt stress as per different research reports but how far Lathyrus sativus L., responds to increasing salinity has been taken up in this work. Thus, the harmful effects of increasing salinity on plant cells at various phases of chromosomal integrity and nucleolus morphology have been evaluated in Lathyrus sativus L., variety Mahatora. Lathyrus sativus variety Mahatora seeds were subjected to seed priming with serially diluted concentrations of NaCl (500, 400, 300, 200 and 100 mM respectively) and germination percentage (72 hrs), root length inhibition (7 days) normal and abnormal MI (Mitotic Index) with 2% aceto-orcein staining, nucleolar morphometric cum frequency analysis (0.05% hematoxylin), total protein, POX and Electrolyte leakage from etiolated roots and root metabolic activity/dehydrogenase activity were measured (TTC staining). From 200 mM onwards, significant reduction in germination percentage and root length inhibition resulted and at 300 and 400 mM salt-priming significant reduction in normal MI%, increased Abnormal MI% showing both aneugenic and clastogenic responses were accounted. At 500 mM pre-exposed root tip cells were found to develop gradual blackening and root tip death and very less viable cells with highly necrotic, vacuolated with chromosomal erosions and nuclear dismantling and nuclear blobbing resulted apoptosis in addition to decreased POX and dehydrogenase activity (300–500 mM NaCl-treated test sets). NaCl stands out as a potential cyto-genotoxicant in Lathyrus sativus L., variety Mahatora. The maximum tolerance level (200–300 mM) and at 400–500 mM NaCl has been highly cytotoxic as per cytological and biochemical data. From 200 mM onwards, nucleolar volume and frequency were altered and at 500 mM pretreatment complete degradation of nuclear machinery was encountered. Out of salinity significant proportions of C-mitosis and polyploidy showing NaCl has a disruptive action in spindle fibre formation that in turn produced somatic diads and subsequent polyploidy formations (At 200 to 300 mM).
A new European species of Mesocrina (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae, Alysiini) with notes on the biology and systematics of the genus
Authors: Godfray H. Charles J. , van Achterberg Cornelis
Published: April 2024

Mesocrina chandleri Godfray & van Achterberg, sp. nov., is described in the small Holarctic genus Mesocrina Foerster, 1863, the second European species. The holotype was collected in England and further specimens are recorded from Finland, France and the Netherlands. A key is provided to the Palaearctic Mesocrina species. DNA sequence from the CO1 barcode locus was obtained and the new species is 10% divergent from M. indagatrix (the other European species) and 5% divergent from an undetermined North American species. We provide evidence that Mesocrina spp. parasitise cyclorrhaphan Diptera in fungi (and that previous host records from phytophagous insects are incorrect) and that the taxon is not part of the Dapsilarthra genus-group as often previously assumed.
Un chahuteur discret : Jean-Jacques Becker historien de la Première Guerre mondiale
Authors: Prochasson Christophe
Published: April 2024

Cette contribution montre que les recherches sur la Grande Guerre ont joué un double rôle dans le parcours de Jean-Jacques Becker. Elles ont d’abord contribué à redéfinir et à redéployer ses perspectives historiographiques, en insistant sur les mouvements d’opinion et sur les représentations. D’autre part, elles lui ont permis d’accompagner, voire de mener, des mouvements historiographiques de grande ampleur qui ont bouleversé les études sur la Première Guerre mondiale depuis les années 1980. À la tête du Centre de recherches de l’Historial de la Grande Guerre à Péronne, Jean-Jacques Becker a été l’une des grandes figures de ce dynamisme intellectuel.
Jean-Jacques Becker, l’historien du politique
Authors: Chatriot Alain
Published: April 2024

Comme historien du politique, Jean-Jacques Becker s’est inscrit dans une perspective ouverte à Nanterre et Sciences Po par René Rémond et ses élèves : une recherche très rigoureusement appuyée sur des archives diverses, attachée à l’analyse des organisations comme des représentations politiques, mais aussi ouverte aux préoccupations du présent.
Étude qualitative sur la pratique infirmière et la souffrance existentielle en soins palliatifs
Authors: Michel Nicolas , Ferré Sophie
Published: April 2024

Une étude qualitative a été réalisée afin d’explorer dans quelles mesures le raisonnement clinique infirmier influence la prise en charge de la souffrance existentielle du patient en soins palliatifs. Cette étude s’est effectuée sous forme d’entretiens semi-directifs auprès de quatre infirmières spécialisées en soins palliatifs versus quatre infirmières non spécialisées, en établissement hospitalier de la région Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Les infirmières spécialisées et non spécialisées établiraient toutes une démarche clinique (repérer-explorer) et une démarche de soins (agir) vis-à-vis de la souffrance existentielle en soins palliatifs. Or, il est révélé des savoirs théoriques et pratiques approfondis et créatifs chez les infirmières spécialisées en soins palliatifs. L’étude met en lumière la perspective de faire évoluer le raisonnement clinique infirmier sur les dimensions spirituelle et philosophique, puis de se pencher sur les savoirs pratiques et expérientiels des infirmières spécialisées au sujet de la souffrance existentielle. Cette recherche montre que l’expérience spécialisée en soins palliatifs contribuerait à sous-tendre le raisonnement clinique des infirmie(è)r(e)s pour repérer-explorer et agir face à la souffrance existentielle du patient. Par ailleurs même sans une expérience spécialisée en soins palliatifs, les infirmières sont attentives à l’état de souffrance du malade mais en manque de repère pour une réalisation adaptative de leurs démarches cliniques et de soins auprès du patient.
Facilitateurs et obstacles au développement de la pratique de l’hypnose clinique hospitalière au sein du département de réadaptation et gériatrie à l’Hôpital Universitaire de Genève
Authors: Ougier-Bouilloux Aude , Matis Caroline , Vayne-Bossert Petra , Wolff Adriana
Published: April 2024

Une formation d’hypnose clinique hospitalière est proposée depuis 2017 aux soignants des Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG). Cette approche complémentaire intégrée aux soins permet aux praticiens formés en hypnose d’apporter aux patients un bien être supplémentaire en respectant leur rythme et leurs besoins. Un bilan réalisé après quatre années de pratique, montre les facilitateurs et les obstacles rencontrés par les utilisateurs du département de réadaptation et gériatrie des HUG et permet ainsi de dégager des pistes d’amélioration.
Les instruments de la puissance américaine
Authors: Allard Patrick
Published: April 2024

Il ne fait aucun doute pour les décideurs américains et leurs adversaires et alliés que les États-Unis demeurent une grande puissance, et même la principale puissance au monde. La puissance américaine repose sur quatre piliers principaux, la diplomatie, l’information, le militaire et l’économie, que rassemble l’acronyme « DIME » couramment utilisé, notamment par les militaires américains .
Ukraine : une guerre de haute intensité à l’ère numérique
Authors: Pajot Benjamin
Published: April 2024

Depuis février 2022, les affrontements de haute intensité en Ukraine se déroulent avant tout sur le champ de bataille. Mais, la guerre se mène et se gagne aussi sur le terrain numérique. Les nouvelles technologies contribuent à renforcer les marges d’action des belligérants mais encouragent également l’implication croissante de civils, potentiellement problématique au regard du droit international humanitaire. Les succès ukrainiens dans les champs cyber comme informationnel ont pu contribuer à réduire l’asymétrie avec l’adversaire russe. Ils rappellent toutefois avec force la profondeur de l’imbrication entre secteurs public et privé, qui n’est pas sans créer des dépendances stratégiques .
Enclaves et exclaves internationales : des objets géopolitiques mal identifiés
Authors: Novosseloff Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Les enclaves et exclaves sont des territoires en discontinuité géographique par rapport à leur État d’appartenance, des territoires situés en pays étranger. Elles ont parfois été analysées par les géographes, mais elles doivent l’être aussi par les politistes. Avoir un point de vue géopolitique sur leur diversité permet de mieux en comprendre l’origine historique et de faire ressortir les points communs de ces territoires uniques et insolites .
Bridging the Gap: The Vital Role of Nursing in Caring for Military Members and Veterans and Their Families
Authors: Tayyeb Ali R.
Published: April 2024

In 2011, a national call from The White House set in motion an initiative for action called Joining Forces to serve America's military families. This initiative, led by then-First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, was intended to unite public and private sectors to ensure active military service members, veterans, and their families had the educational, employment, and wellness resources they needed to succeed. Although the nursing profession started to respond to this call to action, it was never embraced as a priority. With nearly three million active-duty personnel, nearly one million reservists, more than 18 million veterans, and millions more families of our military and veteran community, it is time for the largest health care workforce to lead the care and wellness of our military and veteran community.

[
J Contin Educ Nurs.
2024;55(5):217–219.]
Sustaining the blue bounty: Fish food and nutrition security in Nigeria's evolving blue economy
Authors: Saba Abdulwakil Olawale , Eyo Victor Oscar , Elegbede Isa Olalekan , Fakoya Kafayat Adetoun , Ojewole Akinloye Emmanuel , Dawodu Fareed Olatunji , Adewale Rashidat Adebola , Amal Mohammad Noor Azmai
Published: April 2024

Fish is a key component of Nigeria's protein supply, making up about 40% of the nation's protein intake and considerably aiding in the achievement of the second Sustainable Development Goal of feeding the expanding population. Despite its importance, Nigeria's fish production and supply cannot keep up with demand. While total fish output has increased from 1,073,059 tonnes in 2014 to 1,169,000 tonnes in 2018 and is expected to reach 1,275,000 tonnes by 2030, there is a great supply gap. Fish production not only affects food security but also the national economy and employment. Notwithstanding, the fisheries sub-sector suffers several difficulties, such as poor management, a deficient fisheries policy, overfishing, diminishing catch, and a lack of technical know-how among fish growers and fishermen. Thus, exploring untapped aquaculture potential and managing small-scale fisheries effectively are necessary to close the gap between the demand for and supply of fish. The fish output situation can be improved by enforcing fisheries policy and regulations, increasing investments in ethical fisheries and aquaculture, and providing sufficient training for fish farmers and fisherfolk. To reduce waste associated with the limited number of fish now produced, post-harvest losses must also be addressed. By solving these issues and putting in place the necessary actions, Nigeria can increase its fish production, strengthen its food security, and accomplish the sustainable development goals in its evolving blue economy.
Non-fragile ${H_\infty }$ filter design for uncertain neutral Markovian jump systems with time-varying delays
Authors: Kasimu Yakufu , Maimaitiaili Gulijiamali
Published: April 2024

This paper deals with the problem of non-fragile ${H_\infty }$ filter design for a class of neutral Markovian jump systems with parameter uncertainties and time-varying delays. The parameter uncertainties are norm-bounded, and time-varying delays include state and neutral time-varying delays. First, by selecting the appropriate stochastic Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional and using the integral inequality technique, sufficient conditions are obtained to make the filtering error system not only stochastically stabilized, but also mode and delay dependent. Second, by the utilizing linear matrix inequality method, sufficient conditions are obtained for the filtering error system to be stochastically stable and to have a prescribed ${H_\infty }$ performance level $\gamma $. Based on this result, by processing the uncertainty terms, sufficient conditions for the existence of the filter are obtained, and mode-dependent filter parameters are given. Finally, by numerical simulation, the feasibility and validity of the theoretical results are verified.
Impact of workplace bullying on job burnout and turnover intention among nursing staff in Greece: Evidence after the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Galanis Petros , Moisoglou Ioannis , Katsiroumpa Aglaia , Sourtzi Panayota
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of workplace bullying, job burnout, and turnover intention among nursing staff increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no studies that have measured the relationships among variables of interest after the pandemic.

Objective

Our intention is to investigate the effect of workplace bullying on job burnout and turnover intention in nursing staff.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study during January–February 2024 in Greece. We obtained a convenience sample of 450 nurses. We used the 22-item Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised to assess workplace bullying. We measured job burnout with the single-item burnout measure. We measured nurses' turnover intention with a valid 6-point Likert scale.

Results

The study sample included 450 nurses with the mean age of 39.1 years (standard deviation [SD] = 10.2). The mean workplace bullying score was 7.7 (SD = 2.0), while the mean job burnout score was 7.7 (SD = 2.0). Among our nurses, 57.3% showed a high level of turnover intention. After eliminating confounders, we found that increased workplace bullying (adjusted beta = 0.031, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.023 to 0.039, p < 0.001) was associated with increased job burnout. Moreover, multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that increased turnover intention was more common among nurses who experienced higher levels of workplace bullying (adjusted odds ratio = 1.057, 95% CI = 1.043 to 1.071, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

We found a positive relationship between workplace bullying, job burnout, and turnover intention. Nurse managers, organizations, and policy-makers ought to consider such findings to intervene and decrease workplace bullying by improving working conditions.
Gestion des boisements, économie du bois et combustible d’une ville antique : anthracologie de trois sites de Fréjus-Forum Iulii (Var, France)
Authors: Vaschalde Christophe , Toriti Magali , Excoffon Pierre , Gaucher Grégory
Published: April 2024

La ville antique de Fréjus-Forum Iulii fait l’objet de fouilles archéologiques programmées et préventives depuis plusieurs décennies. Entre 2009 et 2017, quatre opérations préventives portant sur différents quartiers urbains datés du Haut-Empire et, plus rarement, de l’Antiquité tardive, ont mis au jour divers contextes propices à des études anthracologiques : sols, fosses, fours, foyers… Cet article vise à documenter l’exploitation du bois de feu destiné aux activités domestiques et à l’artisanat en mettant en lumière les interactions entre l’homme et son environnement : dynamique d’exploitation et aire d’approvisionnement dans un contexte économique et environnemental propre à la Fréjus romaine. Cette approche permet de dresser une histoire de l’approvisionnement en combustible et de fournir quelques indices sur les paysages végétaux autour de la ville antique. La végétation exploitée pour le combustible connaît une dynamique précoce de régénération, et l’aire d’approvisionnement de la ville semble se rétracter durant l’Antiquité tardive. Durant le Haut-Empire, l’économie du combustible repose sur des pratiques diversifiées, tel que le taillis, et adaptées aux besoins techniques : les Ericacées (bruyères) sont particulièrement recherchées pour fournir du combustible domestique (fagots, charbon de bois) tandis que les thermes publics et les forges usent d’une plus grande diversité d’espèces.
Écouter et comprendre les femmes victimes de violence conjugale : décentrement, éthique de l’inquiétude et stratégies d’adaptation
Authors: Prigent Pierre Guillaume
Published: April 2024

Jusqu’à présent, peu d’études ont été consacrées à l’expérience des femmes avec enfants qui se sont séparées d’un conjoint violent. Dans cet article, je montre qu’écouter et comprendre les femmes victimes de violence conjugale implique d’adopter des pratiques et de construire une éthique adaptées au terrain. J’ai pratiqué un nécessaire décentrement afin de redonner une place centrale et non marginale au vécu des femmes, en mettant à distance le sens masculiniste et les mécanismes d’occultation de la violence. La nature sensible du terrain impose d’adopter un positionnement particulier vis-à-vis des enquêtées, que je nomme éthique de l’inquiétude, dans un contexte où elles sont encore soumises à la violence ou à ses conséquences. Le recueil de ce type de récits longs évoquant des violences et des souffrances peut causer des traumatismes secondaires, et implique donc d’adopter des stratégies d’adaptation de divers types.
« Simple comme un coup de fil » ? La prévention des risques dans une cellule d’écoute de la souffrance au travail
Authors: Juston Morival Romain
Published: April 2024

Cet article traite de l’essor de l’écoute en matière de prise en charge de la souffrance au travail. Pour cela, il restitue une enquête menée dans une cellule d’écoute téléphonique d’une grande administration. Que voit-on depuis l’écoute des maux du travail, et quelles actions de prévention peut-on entreprendre ou initier par téléphone ? Les écoutantes sont-elles des préventrices comme les autres ? C’est à l’étude de ce qui compose cet agencement original de mots, de papiers, de données que cet article est consacré, ainsi qu’à ses effets attendus en matière de transformation des situations de souffrance au travail. Au croisement d’un examen des finalités attribuées à ce dispositif et d’une analyse des opérations de qualification à l’œuvre dans ces situations d’écoute, l’article montre comment les pratiques de prévention par téléphone sont de plus en plus contraintes à mesure que le dispositif d’écoute se mue en un dispositif de surveillance.
Amplifying the Health Concerns of Minoritized Groups in Nigeria Using Documentary
Authors: Ogwezzy Abigail , Unwana Akpan Samuel , Cookey Ogechi Okanya , Nda Iniobong Courage
Published: April 2024

Several studies have shown that most highly placed government officials in the Ministry of Health in Africa do not bother to get to the hinterlands, slums, or inner cities where there are poor people, and socially excluded people, because according to them, these are hard-to-reach areas; and additionally due to the spate of insecurity in the continent. In the case of Nigeria, it has also been revealed that these top government health officials prefer a situation where they are briefed by their media aids who must have gone to have a one-on-one encounter with these minority groups, by capturing their plights on camera, especially in this era of rising insecurity in the country. This chapter explores the role of documentaries in amplifying the health concerns of these minority groups in Nigeria. The study uses social shaping theory in explaining concepts, themes, and constructs. Findings are shared.
Navigating Borders
Authors: Ticha Ignatius Khan
Published: April 2024

This chapter examines the communication and language experiences of African migrants in Cape Town public health facilities in South Africa, exploring strategies they employ to navigate language and communication challenges they may encounter in the healthcare system. About 2.9 million migrants, predominantly Africans, live in South Africa, and their movement to South Africa has brought linguistic diversity and linguistic and cultural complexity, creating unique communication dynamics in healthcare settings. This mainly qualitative research draws on the responses of African migrants from various African countries purposively selected and surveyed to explore their lived experiences and perspectives. The study explores how African migrants experienced language use and communication, considering differences between migrant experiences in South African health institutions and their home countries and offering recommendations to improve communication in health facilities and, consequently, enhance the experiences of African migrants in South African health institutions.
Evaluation of Cone Factors for a Marine Clay from Offshore East Africa
Authors: Sancio R. B. , Brant L. , Ebrahimi A.
Published: April 2024

Cone penetration test (CPT) measurements are commonly used in geotechnical practice to estimate undrained shear strength and preconsolidation stress. Their use requires cone factors which are typically derived through comparison of geotechnical laboratory test data and CPT measurements. Calibrations performed to estimate these cone factors are typically done independently from each other and render constant values for each cone factor, which are independent of vertical effective stress and depth below seafloor. This leads to constant cone factors which may be incompatible within the normalized shear strength framework. In this paper, a comprehensive database of high-quality CPT measurements and geotechnical laboratory test data from a marine clay from offshore East Africa was analyzed to develop cone factors using a normalized shear strength framework.
Novel Fixed Tension Mooring Theory and Application for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines in Shallow Water
Authors: Wang Jin
Published: April 2024

Fundamentally, existing mooring systems are based on the conventional theory of "Length-Fixed Tension-Varying" (LFTV), i.e., the physical length of the mooring line between the mooring fairlead on the floater and the anchor on the seabed is fixed and the mooring line tension varies as the floater moves. For the existing LFTV mooring system, the line tension is highly dynamic. It can increase exponentially as the offset of the floater increases and the mooring line is tightened to its full physical length under extreme wind and wave loading. This causes significant challenges in mooring system design particularly for floating offshore wind turbines (FOWT) in shallow water of 50~100m depth. Another challenge is that the existing catenary mooring system typically has a large footprint on the seabed which may have negative impacts on the marine environment.

In this paper, a new fixed tension mooring theory of "Length-Varying Tension-Fixed" (LVTF) is proposed to overcome the shortcomings of the existing mooring systems. Based on the new mooring theory, novel LVTF mooring configurations are developed for shallow water FOWT applications. Discussions are given on the mooring system restoring force for the novel LVTF mooring concept in comparison with existing catenary mooring. A simplified two-line system is used to illustrate the new mooring theory. Conceptual design of a three-line single shared anchor (SSA) LVTF mooring system is performed and numerical analyses are conducted for a semi-submersible platform supporting the IEA 15 MW wind turbine in shallow water. The results show that the novel ultra-small footprint SSA LVTF mooring concept is highly feasible for station-keeping of the FOWTs. It provides a highly cost-effective and environmental-friendly solution with improved safety and efficiency to the mooring challenges for shallow-water FOWTs. The next step is to conduct proof-of-concept model tests and prototype pilot tests to gain further insights and validate the novel LVTF mooring system conceptual design.
Cleanup to FPSO or Through a Rig in Deep Water—Pro and Cons
Authors: Theuveny B. , Rashid K. , Kotlyar L. , Bailey B. , Hay G. , Comley R.
Published: April 2024

After the drilling and completion of every well, a crucial step involves its preparation for transfer to production. During this operation, we aim to extract the fluids and debris present within the well and potentially in the subsea line system and to reclaim some of the infiltrated substances and fine particles that have encroached upon the vicinity of the wellbore, thereby restoring the well to its peak productivity. This cleanup procedure is orchestrated through a smart selection and strategic placement of fluids within the wellbore, meticulous control of underbalance, potential perforating processes, and a systematic sequencing of choke valve adjustments during the gradual opening of the well to induce flow to the surface. The separation and processing of fluids typically occur close to the wellhead, where they are either prepared for sale or disposed of through various methods. A major question remains of whether to process the fluids at the surface on an FPSO or on a drilling or completion rig.

FPSO cleanup presents advantages such as reduced total cost of ownership, easier fluid disposal facilities, recovery of liquid hydrocarbons, and verification of the full system operational readiness from sand face to the surface production system. However, it usually does not lend itself to a precise control of wellbore cleanup parameters and can create significant stresses on the surface production system. We establish a methodology to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each solution based on a fit-for-purpose cleanup transient simulator and an optimization routine that enables the determination of nonintuitive sequence of control parameters that in both cases can result in significant gains.

The comparison of predicted outcome versus realization in deepwater confirms that nonintuitive considerations must be evaluated to achieve a proper balance of all factors, ranging from met-ocean to rig availability and FPSO tolerance and to slugs and large amount of solids. The concept starts from the reservoir drilling phase and some previously ignored factors can be overwhelmingly important.

The paper outlines how a thorough assessment of field development architecture, operational scheduling, and the overall environmental emissions can result in a mutually beneficial solution for the cleanup process. Significantly and counterintuitively, we demonstrate the feasibility of reducing flared hydrocarbon quantities through intricate sequencing of cleanup activities. These seemingly unconventional operational sequences become achievable through the integration of remotely controlled and automated choke sequences along with real-time monitoring of well conditions.
Turning a Well-Known Anti-Corrosion Coating System into an Electrical Insulation System for Heated Pipelines
Authors: Marret A. , D'Amico A. , Aparicio C. , Roland P. , D'Huart P.
Published: April 2024

As a major improvement to a Direct Electrical Heating Pipe-in-Pipe system reliability, an additional 3-layer polypropylene (3LPP) coating is used as electrical insulation system. 3LPP is a widely used system for subsea anti-corrosion application, that needs to be qualified for the electrical insulation purpose. Scope of the paper is to present the qualification path of the 3LPP electrical insulation system, from the requirement definition and product selection to the qualification plan execution and results application.

Qualification of an anti-corrosion system for electrical insulation purpose requires gathering as much data as possible, mainly on its electrical characteristics. The steps followed to qualify the 3LPP for electrical insulation are the following: 1/Full characterization of the system under different temperatures. These data are used to properly size the system and adjust the electrical models; 2/Accelerated aging of the system for a 25-year life representativeness. Considering the few available data on the 3LPP aging, an extended electrical and thermal aging campaign has been performed. The aging test protocol has been designed to validate the system aging over 25 years, including a thermal cycling aging and a continuous multifactor thermal and electrical aging, and secondly to challenge/validate the aging data from literature.

All the qualification steps have been completed on an extended number of scale-one samples to reach a maximum level of confidence. The results show a good viability of the product for the given purpose. The material properties are in line with the anticipated values, validating both the sizing model and finite element analysis model. The aging behavior of the system is found to be even better than expected (from literature), meaning that the system is withstanding 25 years of service life without reaching the viability threshold or end of life criteria.

The work performed and presented in this paper brings additive information to the 3LPP range of use and brings a new occurrence of plastic materials multifactor aging test.
Advances Towards Replacing Top Chain with Fiber Rope for Offshore Moorings: A DeepStar Study
Authors: Del Vecchio C. , Yan H. , Rieth D. , Gabrielsen Ø. , Menezes F. , Jegannathan M. , de Oliveira A. Carre , Gomes J.
Published: April 2024

Previous studies suggest that chain failures may contribute to about half of the mooring failures sustained by permanent mooring systems [Ma et al. 2013. OTC-24025]. DeepStar commissioned a study to generate data to prevent failures in fiber ropes if they were to replace top chain. The effect of fairlead sheaves was not considered in the present study.

For fiber ropes brought close to water surface, or even above water, the key degradation processes identified as possible causes of failure were marine growth, and the effects of temperature and Ultra-Violet (UV) radiation. Samples of current production, supplied by six ropemakers, containing both polyester and High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (HMPE) ropes were tested, as the study scope of DeepStar 21403 and 22403 projects. Samples were exposed to marine growth for two yearly growth seasons, followed by dissection to investigate penetration of organisms in the load-bearing core. The capacity of the rope cover and filter to screen UV getting to the core and the effect of UV eventually reaching the core fibers was measured. The effect of temperature on the polyester and HMPE fiber of the rope cores was also investigated.

The braided cover, combined with the soil ingress protection layer of ropes tested, provided effective screening of ultra-violet radiation, with very little UV reaching the load-bearing fibers of the rope core. Small diameter ropes with thinner cover and filter layers tend to allow more radiation to pass. The effect of UV eventually reaching the core fibers was measured. After being attenuated by the screening effect of cover and filter, UV is not expected to be an issue for fiber rope performance, provided that cover and filter maintain their original screening characteristics. For the range of temperature tested, significant degradation was not identified in the polyester yarns (tested in immersion). Testing of the HMPE yarn suggested that further studies may be required if temperature reaches the upper part of the range of temperatures tested. Penetration of marine growth through cover and filter layers is also reported.

Results can be used to better define candidate materials and rope construction to be used if fiber rope is used to replace top chain, provided mooring lines are connected to the hull without passing through deviating devices, such as fairlead sheaves. The results should be useful for floating production units of oil and gas and wind energy. The use of fiber rope in shallow water can be particularly beneficial in the moorings of floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs).
Vertical Structure and the Circulation Impact of the North Brazil Current Rings Off Guyana
Authors: Chen F. , Schiller R. V.
Published: April 2024

Current measurements from a subsurface mooring offshore Guyana have been conducted by ExxonMobil in support for the oil and gas development in the area from March 2016 to March 2017. Understanding the current structure and inertial and sub-inertial period variations associated with the North Brazil Current (NBC) rings in the area are important to the development of the design and operational criteria off Guyana given the increase in activities by the oil and gas industry in the study region. The mooring was deployed near 57°W, 8°N in the water depth of 1678 m. Four NBC rings, which were measured during the one-year measurement campaign, can be categorized into three types based on their temporal and spatial (vertical) structures. The first two rings measured in the boreal spring of 2016 are shallow, fast-moving rings with the maximum penetration depth around 200m. The third ring is a slow-moving, deep feature with the penetration depth up to 1000 m. The fourth one is a fast-moving, deep ring with the penetration depth up to 800 m. A reversal current is observed flowing southwesterly along the coastline beneath all of the rings for the most part of the measurement period. Noteworthy inertial period variations are measured in the upper 200 m only with the arrival of the NBC rings and persistently in summer. Enhancement of the sub-inertial (5-10 days) variations is also detected in association with all four rings, suggesting that sub-inertial oscillations can be excited by the NBC rings.
Enabling At-Bit Petrophysical Evaluation and Faster Well Placement Decisions Utilizing Novel Quantitative Digitally Compensated Resistivity Measurement
Authors: Elkhamry A. , Taher A. , Maimani A. Al , Fouda M.
Published: April 2024

Petrophysical analysis of well logs evaluates the lithology, porosity, water saturation and net pay zone where resistivity logs are used to indicate the fluid type within the depth of investigation of the measurements. The introduction of multi-axial electromagnetic (EM) resistivity measurement enabled resolving vertical and horizontal components for advanced petrophysical analysis. This paper discusses the introduction of a new logging while drilling (LWD) digitally compensated closer to the bit multi-axial EM resistivity tool enabling improved petrophysical analysis, better coverage of the drilled open hole leading to faster real-time well-placement decisions and increased well productivity.

In highly deviated and horizontal sections, LWD is generally considered the most viable option for well logging. However, LWD sensors in traditional bottom-hole assemblies (BHAs) are usually placed at a minimum distance of about 35 ft from the bit due to the presence of a steerable drilling system between the bit and the logging tools which leads to relatively late petrophysical analysis of the drilled interval which can result in sub-optimal well placement. The introduction of an advanced near-bit, digitally compensated, multi-axial electromagnetic resistivity measurement located within the downhole steering system has proven to add value beyond addressing this challenge.

Closer to the bit resistivity measurement enabled data availability as soon as new footage is drilled which facilitates faster real-time, interactive well-placement decisions to optimize steering the well within the target zone leading to increasing productivity while minimizing hole tortuosity. The new configuration added value by resolving effects from nearby boundaries which can be utilized in petrophysical evaluation as well as projecting geo-mapping "At-the-bit" providing lithology indicator and fluid distribution through resolving vertical and horizontal resistivity components.

This paper presents the outcome of deploying the industry's first close-to-the-bit LWD compensated resistivity sensor, embedded in the rotary steerable drilling system demonstrating the evaluation of almost the whole interval of the well drilled, enhanced petrophysical analysis benefiting from resistivity measurements with minimal formation exposure time, timely preparation of the completion design by making real-time decisions on completion and isolation resulting in saving costly rig time.
Identification of the Safety and Integrity Challenges for Carbon Capture Systems Onboard Marine Vessels or Offshore Facilities
Authors: El-Kady Ahmed Hamdy , Amin Md. Tanjin , Khan Faisal , Choudhury Quaim
Published: April 2024

The maritime industry is exploring pathways to mitigate its environmental footprint using negative emissions technologies (NETs) such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) by 2050 to achieve significantly lower gas emissions from shipping and offshore facilities. This paper investigates the safety and integrity challenges associated with onboard CCS (OCCS) deployed on marine vessels and offshore installations. First, the study reviews different CO2 capture techniques and onboard storage and then, elucidates CO2's physical states and properties, as they relate to these processes. Using a comprehensive analysis of literature and previous incidents related to carbon capture and storage systems, this study highlights potential hazards associated with these processes to help in understanding the associated risks and limitations. Finally, it investigates case studies that illustrate how these identified hazards can manifest as tangible safety challenges within the framework of OCCS. CO2 chemical properties can be categorized into three major groups: those related to capture, storage & transportation, and safety hazards. Capturing CO2 from the ship's exhaust gas can be done through one of several mechanisms: liquid absorption, solid adsorption, membrane, cryogenic separation, and calcium looping. Regardless of the capture technique, the current state of the art is that CO2 is stored in a liquefied state aboard ships within containers under moderate pressure (ranging from 7 to 18 bar) and at low temperatures (between -50°C and -28°C). CO2 poses hazards, including health risks, environmental concerns from boil-off gas generation and offshore release impacting marine life, and safety risks due to poor dispersion in low-lying areas. The research aims to facilitate a seamless integration of OCCS technologies and foster a sustainable and eco-conscious maritime future by offering insights into potential hazards, risks, and safety considerations.
Factors Influencing Construction of Floating Offshore Wind Farms on the West Coast of the United States
Authors: Kadivar M. , Samuel B. , Cottee L. , Neill R. , Roope C. , Arlott L. , Barwise A.
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on enhancing our understanding of key factors influencing the construction of floating offshore wind farms along the west coast of the United States. It explores geophysical, geological, and geotechnical aspects, specifically aiming to predict and address key considerations for cable and anchor installation. The study examines various factors, such as seismic activities including earthquakes and tsunamis, liquefaction potential, submarine landslide potential, and steep seabed gradients, which are critical in shaping engineering approaches. Also, the identification of hard grounds, paleochannels, soft and organic soils, fluid expulsion features and shallow gas pockets are explored for their influence on design and construction. The research also emphasizes the importance of recognizing sensitive marine habitats and understanding existing ocean usage and anthropogenic features for environmentally conscious and safe project planning. By proactively engaging with these factors, this study aims to provide insightful recommendations and strategies for the successful development of floating offshore wind farms in this region. It underscores the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and customized engineering solutions to ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of these renewable energy projects.
Experimental Studies of Polymer Degradation in Carbonates Under Challenging Conditions
Authors: Hassan Anas M. , Mahboob Ahmad , Khan Sarmad Z. , Sebastian Anoo , Mushtaq Muhammad , Al-Shalabi Emad W. , Zeynalli Mursal , Gowida Ahmed
Published: April 2024

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the effects of flow rate, salinity, and rock permeability on the degradation of an ATBS-based polymer during polymer flooding (PF). Experiments were conducted using polymer solutions in both moderate (57,670 ppm) and low (5,767 ppm) salinity environments at 80°C. The experiments were carried out on Indiana limestone core plugs with permeabilities of 195 mD and 419 mD. Two distinct flow rates, 0.5 cc/min and 2 cc/min, were employed to assess the degradation behavior. Key findings include a direct correlation between polymer degradation and increasing flow rate. At the high flow rate of 2 cc/min, degradation reached 12% and 21% in low and moderate salinity environments, respectively. In contrast, the low flow rate of 0.5 cc/min resulted in considerably lower degradation levels of 1% and 4% for low and moderate salinity conditions. Furthermore, the study reveals that salinity significantly impacts polymer mechanical stability. In the higher salinity setting (57,670 ppm), degradation was notably higher at both flow rates (4% at 0.5 cc/min and 21% at 2 cc/min) compared to the lower salinity environment (5,767 ppm), which showed degradation rates of 1% and 12% for the respective flow rates of 0.5 and 2 cc/min.

In this study, the role of rock permeability was also investigated. The lower permeability rock (195 mD) exhibited higher degradation rates (4% at 0.5 cc/min and 21% at 2 cc/min), whereas the higher permeability core (419 mD) demonstrated lower degradation (1% at 0.5 cc/min and 12% at 2 cc/min). These findings suggest that significant attention must be provided to the selection of reservoir rock permeability, polymer type as well as injection water rate and salinity for successful polymer flooding in harsh conditioned carbonate reservoirs. By proper selection of these parameters, their negative impact on polymer stability can be decreased, resulting in an improvement in the efficacy of polymer-based enhanced oil recovery (EOR) operations.
Residual Curvature Riser (RCR): A Novel Concept
Authors: Amorim Andre Ramiro , de Moraes Takafuji Fernanda Cristina , Asgari Peyman , Tanscheit Peter
Published: April 2024

Residual Curvature Riser (RCR) is proposed as a cost-effective alternative to enable steel catenary risers in harsh environments. It is a known solution used in flowlines to control upheaval and lateral buckling and is now studied to be applied in risers. The idea is to use a similar solution along the riser catenary, to protect the touchdown zone, a region that is commonly subjected to large curvature, from the Floating Production Unit (FPU) motions. This paper describes the technical qualification program developed so far, focused on the study of the behaviour of residual curvature in free hanging catenaries to understand its applications and limitations. It also presents and discusses the main results and draws key conclusions.
Decommissioning of Offshore Oil and Gas Installations in Campos Basin - Brazil: Main Challenges and Achievements
Authors: Nicolosi E. R. , Dutra E. S. S. , Guerra L. C. F. , de Freitas L. R. , Filho E. L. V. C. , Prado D. D. , Giovani R. S. , Fernandes A. A. F.
Published: April 2024

The article provides an overview of the challenging scenario associated with decommissioning projects in Campos Basin. The challenges are associated with the variety of structures to be decommissioned, the diversity and sensitivity of the environment in the region, and the incipient and still evolving decommissioning regulations in Brazil.

A particular focus goes to the decommissioning of nine Marlim Field platforms (five Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading – FPSO and four semi-submersibles – SS, at depths from 160 to 1000 m), their interface with the field revitalization project, its complex environmental scenario (due to the occurrence of deepwater coral formations), and the development of optimized solutions, such as the pull-out of risers by cutting them above sea water level, inside the FPSO internal turret, which eliminated the need for diving and reduced around 50% the cost of operations, through the reduction of PLSV demand.

In terms of increasing the sustainability of decommissioning projects, several measures are presented, including the reuse of flexible pipelines from the decommissioning project of FPSO Capixaba (Jubarte Field), which resulted in more than 50 km of lines (36% of the total scope of the project) being used in another project. It also addresses the lessons from dismantling the P-32, the first sustainable recycling project for FPSO executed in Brazil.

Brazil has consolidated itself as the third-largest decommissioning market in the world, mainly due to the projects in Campos Basin. Only in the Marlim Field, besides its nine platforms, more than 300 risers, 1200 km of flexible lines, 225 km of rigid pipelines, and eight large equipment (e.g.: manifolds) will be decommissioned by 2030. Therefore, this article discusses in detail these projects (lessons learned and innovations) and their great potential to contribute to improving the decommissioning world industry.