bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carpal tunnel release with subneural reconstruction of the transverse carpal ligament compared with isolated open and endoscopic release
Authors: Zhang X. , Li Y. , Wen S. , Zhu H. , Shao X. , Yu Y.
Published: January 2015

We report a new surgical technique of open carpal tunnel release with subneural reconstruction of the transverse carpal ligament and compare this with isolated open and endoscopic carpal tunnel release.

Between December 2007 and October 2011, 213 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (70 male, 143 female; mean age 45.6 years; 29 to 67) were recruited from three different centres and were randomly allocated to three groups: group A, open carpal tunnel release with subneural reconstruction of the transverse carpal ligament (n = 68); group B, isolated open carpal tunnel release (n = 92); and group C, endoscopic carpal tunnel release (n = 53).

At a mean final follow-up of 24 months (22 to 26), we found no significant difference between the groups in terms of severity of symptoms or lateral grip strength. Compared with groups B and C, group A had significantly better functional status, cylindrical grip strength and pinch grip strength. There were significant differences in Michigan Hand Outcome scores between groups A and B, A and C, and B and C. Group A had the best functional status, cylindrical grip strength, pinch grip strength and Michigan Hand Outcome score.

Subneural reconstruction of the transverse carpal ligament during carpal tunnel decompression maximises hand strength by stabilising the transverse carpal arch.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:221–8
The evolving role of computer-assisted navigation in musculoskeletal oncology
Authors: Young P. S. , Bell S. W. , Mahendra A.
Published: January 2015

We report our experience of using a computer navigation system to aid resection of malignant musculoskeletal tumours of the pelvis and limbs and, where appropriate, their subsequent reconstruction. We also highlight circumstances in which navigation should be used with caution.

We resected a musculoskeletal tumour from 18 patients (15 male, three female, mean age of 30 years (13 to 75) using commercially available computer navigation software (Orthomap 3D) and assessed its impact on the accuracy of our surgery. Of nine pelvic tumours, three had a biological reconstruction with extracorporeal irradiation, four underwent endoprosthetic replacement (EPR) and two required no bony reconstruction. There were eight tumours of the bones of the limbs. Four diaphyseal tumours underwent biological reconstruction. Two patients with a sarcoma of the proximal femur and two with a sarcoma of the proximal humerus underwent extra-articular resection and, where appropriate, EPR. One soft-tissue sarcoma of the adductor compartment which involved the femur was resected and reconstructed using an EPR. Computer navigation was used to aid reconstruction in eight patients.

Histological examination of the resected specimens revealed tumour-free margins in all patients. Post-operative radiographs and CT showed that the resection and reconstruction had been carried out as planned in all patients where navigation was used. In two patients, computer navigation had to be abandoned and the operation was completed under CT and radiological control.

The use of computer navigation in musculoskeletal oncology allows accurate identification of the local anatomy and can define the extent of the tumour and proposed resection margins. Furthermore, it helps in reconstruction of limb length, rotation and overall alignment after resection of an appendicular tumour.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:258–64.
Retrospective evaluation of the incidence of early periprosthetic infection with silver-treated endoprostheses in high-risk patients
Authors: Wafa H. , Grimer R. J. , Reddy K. , Jeys L. , Abudu A. , Carter S. R. , Tillman R. M.
Published: January 2015

We conducted a case-control study to examine the merit of silver-coated tumour prostheses. We reviewed 85 patients with Agluna-treated (silver-coated) tumour implants treated between 2006 and 2011 and matched them with 85 control patients treated between 2001 and 2011 with identical, but uncoated, tumour prostheses.

In all, 106 men and 64 women with a mean age of 42.2 years (18.4 to 90.4) were included in the study. There were 50 primary reconstructions (29.4%); 79 one-stage revisions (46.5%) and 41 two-stage revisions for infection (24.1%).

The overall post-operative infection rate of the silver-coated group was 11.8% compared with 22.4% for the control group (p = 0.033, chi-square test). A total of seven of the ten infected prostheses in the silver-coated group were treated successfully with debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention compared with only six of the 19 patients (31.6%) in the control group (p = 0.048, chi-square test). Three patients in the silver-coated group (3.5%) and 13 controls (15.3%) had chronic periprosthetic infection (p = 0.009, chi-square test).

The overall success rates in controlling infection by two-stage revision in the silver-coated group was 85% (17/20) compared with 57.1% (12/21) in the control group (p = 0.05, chi-square test). The Agluna-treated endoprostheses were associated with a lower rate of early periprosthetic infection. These silver-treated implants were particularly useful in two-stage revisions for infection and in those patients with incidental positive cultures at the time of implantation of the prosthesis.

Debridement with antibiotic treatment and retention of the implant appeared to be more successful with silver-coated implants.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:252–7.
Does osteoporosis have a negative effect on the functional outcome of an osteoporotic distal radial fracture treated with a volar locking plate?
Authors: Choi W-S. , Lee H. J. , Kim D-Y. , Lee C-H. , Lee B. G. , Kim J-H. , Lee K-H.
Published: January 2015

We performed a retrospective study to determine the effect of osteoporosis on the functional outcome of osteoporotic distal radial fractures treated with a volar locking plate. Between 2009 and 2012 a total of 90 postmenopausal women with an unstable fracture of the distal radius treated with a volar locking plate were studied. Changes in the radiological parameters of 51 patients with osteoporosis (group 1, mean age 66.9, mean T-score –3.16 (sd 0.56)) were not significantly different from those in 39 patients without osteoporosis (group 2, mean age 61.1, mean T-score –1.72 (sd 0.57)). The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at final follow-up was 11.5 (sd 12.2) in group 1 and 10.5 (sd 13.25) in group 2. The mean modified Mayo wrist score at final follow-up was 79.0 (sd 14.04) in group 1 and 82.6 (sd 13.1) in group 2. However, this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.35 for DASH score, p = 0.2 for modified Mayo wrist score). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that only the step-off of the radiocarpal joint was related to both a poor DASH and modified Mayo wrist score. Pearson’s correlation coefficient showed a weak negative relationship only between the T-score and the change in volar tilt (intraclass coefficient –0.26, p = 0.02).

We found that osteoporosis does not have a negative effect on the functional outcome and additional analysis did not show a correlation between T-score and outcome.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:229–34.
Modelling the probability of building fires
Authors: Barták Vojtěch , Gdulová Kateřina , Špatenková Olga , Bárta Aleš , Šímová Petra
Published: January 2015

Systematic spatial risk analysis plays a crucial role in preventing emergencies.In the Czech Republic, risk mapping is currently based on the risk accumulationprinciple, area vulnerability, and preparedness levels of Integrated Rescue Systemcomponents. Expert estimates are used to determine risk levels for individualhazard types, while statistical modelling based on data from actual incidents andtheir possible causes is not used. Our model study, conducted in cooperation withthe Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic as a model within the Liberec andHradec Králové regions, presents an analytical procedure leading to the creation ofbuilding fire probability maps based on recent incidents in the studied areas andon building parameters. In order to estimate the probability of building fires, aprediction model based on logistic regression was used. Probability of fire calculatedby means of model parameters and attributes of specific buildings can subsequentlybe visualized in probability maps.
System Software Testing of Laser Tracker Leica AT401
Authors: Dvořáček Filip
Published: January 2015

The article introduces a group of instruments called laser trackers and specificallyfocuses on one of them - Leica AT401. At the Research Institute of Geodesy, To-pography and Cartography the instrument has been tested both in laboratory andoutdoor conditions. Several significant errors in the instrument’s system softwarehave been found, mostly due to the creation of user-programmed controlling appli-cation called ATControl. The errors are related to a selection, a computation andan evaluation procedure of the refractive index of air. Finally, notes of the newmeasurement modes of Leica AT40x are given and a range of distance measure-ment is discussed.
Crohn’s Disease: a Role of Gut Microbiota and Nod2 Gene Polymorphisms in Disease Pathogenesis
Authors: Hrnčířová Lucia , Krejsek Jan , Šplíchal Igor , Hrnčíř Tomáš
Published: January 2015

Crohn’s disease is a chronic immune-mediated intestinal inflammation targeted against a yet incompletely defined subset of commensal gut microbiota and occurs on the background of a genetic predisposition under the influence of environmental factors. Genome-wide association studies have identified about 70 genetic risk loci associated with Crohn’s disease. The greatest risk for Crohn’s disease represent polymorphisms affecting the CARD15 gene encoding nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) which is an intracellular sensor for muramyl dipeptide, a peptidoglycan constituent of bacterial cell wall. The accumulated evidence suggests that gut microbiota represent an essential, perhaps a central factor in the induction and maintaining of Crohn’s disease where dysregulation of normal co-evolved homeostatic relationships between intestinal microbiota and host mucosal immune system leads to intestinal inflammation. Taken together, these findings identify Crohn’s disease as a syndrome of overlapping phenotypes that involves variable influences of genetic and environmental factors. A deeper understanding of different genetic abnormalities underlying Crohn’s disease together with the identification of beneficial and harmful components of gut microbiota and their interactions are essential conditions for the categorization of Crohn’s disease patients, which enable us to design more effective, preferably causative, individually tailored therapy.
Surgical Reconstruction of Charcot Foot Neuroarthropathy, a Case Based Review
Authors: Kučera Tomáš , Šponer Pavel , Šrot Jaromír
Published: January 2015

Our case-based review focuses on limb salvage through operative management of Charcot neuroarthropathy of the diabetic foot. We describe a case, when a below-knee amputation was considered in a patient with chronic Charcot foot with a rocker-bottom deformity and chronic plantar ulceration. Conservative treatment failed. Targeted antibiotic therapy and operative management (Tendo-Achilles lengthening, resectional arthrodesis of Lisfranc and midtarsal joints, fixation with large-diameter axial screws, and plaster cast) were performed. On the basis of this case, we discuss options and drawbacks of surgical management. Our approach led to healing of the ulcer and correction of the deformity. Two years after surgery, we observed a significant improvement in patient’s quality of life. Advanced diagnostic and imaging techniques, a better understanding of the biomechanics and biology of Charcot neuroarthropathy, and suitable osteosynthetic material enables diabetic limb salvage.
Verkehrsflussmessungen – Vergleich zwischen Laserscanner und Trackingradar
Authors: Kupper Johannes
Published: January 2015

Fahrzeuggeschwindigkeiten und Verkehrsstärken sind häufig Gegenstand von
wissenschaftlichen Untersuchungen im Straßenverkehr. Diese Messgrößen werden
zudem für intelligente Verkehrsanwendungen verwendet, um den Verkehrsfluss
insgesamt zu verbessern. Im Rahmen der hier vorgestellten Arbeit soll gezeigt
werden, dass neben den Sensoren, die bisher für die Bestimmung der genannten
Messgrößen verwendet werden, ein Trackingradar verwendet werden kann. Es
sollen hier die messtechnischen Eigenschaften dieses Trackingradars untersucht
werden und die Vorteile gegenüber den bisher eingesetzten Sensoren aufgezeigt
werden.
Numerical Modeling of Unsteady Oil Film Motion Characteristics in Bearing Chambers
Authors: Zhao Jingyu , Liu Zhenxia , Lu Yaguo , Hu Jianping
Published: January 2015

To obtain motion characteristics of the lubricating oil film on the aero-engine bearing chamber wall, a complete mathematical model based on theoretical study to solve three-dimensional unsteady oil film motion was established. On the basis of verifying the rationality of the computational model, the variations of the oil film thickness, velocity and temperature with the rotation speed and lubricating oil flow were analyzed and studied. The numerical results show that the following: In the stable oil film flow state, the oil film thickness shows a decreasing trend with increase in rotation speed and an increasing trend with increase in the lubricating oil flow. Particularly, comparison with the experimental work shows that the proposed numerical model based on theoretical study to solve unsteady oil film motion is a valuable technical means for the study of oil film movement mechanism and the design of actual bearing chamber.
Genetic screening of patients with medullary thyroid cancer in a referral center in Greece during the past two decades
Authors: Sarika H-L , Papathoma A , Garofalaki M , Saltiki K , Pappa T , Pazaitou-Panayiotou K , Anastasiou E , Alevizaki M
Published: January 2015

Objective

Mutations in theRETgene are responsible for hereditary medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and may vary between ethnic groups. We report the spectrum of mutations detected in patients with MTC in a referral center in Greece.

Patients and methods

Screening forRETmutations was performed in 313 subjects from 188 unrelated families: 51 patients had clinical suspicion for familial disease, 133 were apparently sporadic, four patients had only C cell hyperplasia, and 125 were family members. Exons 8, 10, 11, and 13–16 were screened.

Results

A total of 58 individuals (30.85%) wereRETmutations carriers, 120 (63.8%) were finally classified as sporadic, 13 apparently sporadic cases (9.8%) were identified withRETmutation: ten carried the exon 8 at codon 533 mutation (previously reported), two the exon 14 at codon 804 mutation, and one the exon 13 at codon 768 mutation. Six patients (3.19%) with clinical features of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A and negative forRETmutations were classified as ‘unknown cause’. The mutations of hereditary cases were as follows: 21 cases (36.2%) in exon 8 codon 533, 19 (32.8%) in exon 11 codon 634, nine (15.5%) in exon 10, five (8.6%) in exon 16, three (5.2%) in exon 14 codon 804, and one in exon 13 codon 768 (1.7%).

Conclusion

The spectrum ofRETmutations in Greece differs from that in other populations and the prevalence of familial cases is higher. The exon 8 (Gly533Cys) mutation was the most prevalent in familial cases unlike other series, followed by exon 11 (codon 634) mutations which are the most frequent elsewhere. The wide application of genetic screening in MTC reveals new molecular defects and helps to characterize the spectrum of mutations in each ethnic group.
Persistent organic pollutants and obesity: are they potential mechanisms for breast cancer promotion?
Authors: Reaves Denise K , Ginsburg Erika , Bang John J , Fleming Jodie M
Published: January 2015

Dietary ingestion of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is correlated with the development of obesity. Obesity alters metabolism, induces an inflammatory tissue microenvironment, and is also linked to diabetes and breast cancer risk/promotion of the disease. However, no direct evidence exists with regard to the correlation among all three of these factors (POPs, obesity, and breast cancer). Herein, we present results from current correlative studies indicating a causal link between POP exposure through diet and their bioaccumulation in adipose tissue that promotes the development of obesity and ultimately influences breast cancer development and/or progression. Furthermore, as endocrine disruptors, POPs could interfere with hormonally responsive tissue functions causing dysregulation of hormone signaling and cell function. This review highlights the critical need for advancedin vitroandin vivomodel systems to elucidate the complex relationship among obesity, POPs, and breast cancer, and, more importantly, to delineate their multifaceted molecular, cellular, and biochemical mechanisms. Comprehensivein vitroandin vivostudies directly testing the observed correlations as well as detailing their molecular mechanisms are vital to cancer research and, ultimately, public health.
ERK1/2 mediates glucose-regulated POMC gene expression in hypothalamic neurons
Authors: Zhang Juan , Zhou Yunting , Chen Cheng , Yu Feiyuan , Wang Yun , Gu Jiang , Ma Lian , Ho Guyu
Published: January 2015

Hypothalamic glucose-sensing neurons regulate the expression of genes encoding feeding-related neuropetidesPOMC,AgRP, andNPY– the key components governing metabolic homeostasis. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is postulated to be the molecular mediator relaying glucose signals to regulate the expression of these neuropeptides. Whether other signaling mediator(s) plays a role is not clear. In this study, we investigated the role of ERK1/2 using primary hypothalamic neurons as the model system. The primary neurons were differentiated from hypothalamic progenitor cells. The differentiated neurons possessed the characteristic neuronal cell morphology and expressed neuronal post-mitotic markers as well as leptin-regulated orexigenicPOMCand anorexigenicAgRP/NPYgenes. Treatment of cells with glucose dose-dependently increasedPOMCand decreasedAgRP/NPYexpression with a concurrent suppression of AMPK phosphorylation. In addition, glucose treatment dose-dependently increased the ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Blockade of ERK1/2 activity with its specific inhibitor PD98059 partially (approximately 50%) abolished glucose-inducedPOMCexpression, but had little effect onAgRP/NPYexpression. Conversely, blockade of AMPK activity with its specific inhibitor produced a partial (approximately 50%) reversion of low-glucose-suppressedPOMCexpression, but almost completely blunted the low-glucose-inducedAgRP/NPYexpression. The results indicate that ERK1/2 mediatedPOMCbut notAgRP/NPYexpression. Confirming thein vitrofindings, i.c.v. administration of PD98059 in rats similarly attenuated glucose-inducedPOMCexpression in the hypothalamus, but again had little effect onAgRP/NPYexpression. The results are indicative of a novel role of ERK1/2 in glucose-regulatedPOMCexpression and offer new mechanistic insights into hypothalamic glucose sensing.
Defects and Remedies in Stamping of Advanced High Strength Steels
Authors: Ilyas Kacar  , Fahrettin Ozturk  , Firas Jarrar
Published: January 2015

In recent years, the use of advanced high strength steels (AHSS) in the automotive industry has increased due to their potential in reducing weight, leading to lower fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The AHSS structures would be the optimum choice for many applications; however, there are many defects to overcome in their stamping. In this present study, different types of defects and remedies of AHSS stampings are presented.
Morphine Versus Clonidine for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
Authors: Bada Henrietta S. , Sithisarn Thitinart , Gibson Julia , Garlitz Karen , Caldwell Rhonda , Capilouto Gilson , Li Yinglei , Leggas Markos , Breheny Patrick
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE:

The study goal was to determine whether clonidine treatment of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) would result in a better neurobehavioral performance compared with morphine.

METHODS:

This pilot study prospectively enrolled infants ≥35 weeks’ gestational age admitted for treatment of NAS. After informed consent was obtained, infants were randomized to receive morphine (0.4 mg/kg per day) or clonidine (5 μg/kg per day) divided into 8 doses. A 25% dose escalation every 24 hours was possible per protocol (maximum of 1 mg/kg per day for morphine and 12 μg/kg per day for clonidine). After control of symptoms, the dose was tapered by 10% every other day. Clinical staff monitored infants by using Finnegan scoring. Masked research staff administered the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS) at 1 week and at 2 to 4 weeks after initiation of treatment and the Bayley Scales III, and Preschool Language Scale IV, at 1-year adjusted age. Analyses included descriptive statistics, repeated measures analysis of variance, and Wilcoxon tests.

RESULTS:

Infants treated with morphine (n = 15) versus clonidine (n = 16) did not differ in birth weight or age at treatment. Treatment duration was significantly longer for morphine (median 39 days) than for clonidine (median 28 days; P = .02). NNNS summary scores improved significantly with clonidine but not with morphine. On subsequent assessment, those receiving clonidine had lower height of arousal and excitability (P < .05). One-year motor, cognitive, and language scores did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Clonidine may be a favorable alternative to morphine as a single-drug therapy for NAS. A multicenter randomized trial is warranted.
The Impact of Marijuana Policies on Youth: Clinical, Research, and Legal Update
Authors: Ammerman Seth , Ryan Sheryl , Adelman William P. ,   THE COMMITTEE ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE, THE COMMITTEE ON ADOLESCENCE, Levy Sharon , Ammerman Seth D. , Gonzalez Pamela K. , Ryan Sheryl A. , Siqueira Lorena M. , Smith Vincent C. , Braverman Paula K. , Adelman William P. , Alderman Elizabeth Meller , Breuner Cora C. , Levine David A. , Marcell Arik V. , O’Brien Rebecca Flynn
Published: January 2015

This Technical Report was reaffirmed January 2024.

This technical report updates the 2004 American Academy of Pediatrics technical report on the legalization of marijuana. Current epidemiology of marijuana use is presented, as are definitions and biology of marijuana compounds, side effects of marijuana use, and effects of use on adolescent brain development. Issues concerning medical marijuana specifically are also addressed. Concerning legalization of marijuana, 4 different approaches in the United States are discussed: legalization of marijuana solely for medical purposes, decriminalization of recreational use of marijuana, legalization of recreational use of marijuana, and criminal prosecution of recreational (and medical) use of marijuana. These approaches are compared, and the latest available data are presented to aid in forming public policy. The effects on youth of criminal penalties for marijuana use and possession are also addressed, as are the effects or potential effects of the other 3 policy approaches on adolescent marijuana use. Recommendations are included in the accompanying policy statement.
Effect of carbetocin, oxytocin and prostaglandin E2 and F2α on intrauterine pressure in cows in dioestrus and oestrus
Authors: Adler M. , Bleul U.
Published: January 2015

Objective: To describe the physiological activity of the myometrium in oestrus and dioestrus and the induced activity after medication in cows with particular reference to segmental differences. Material and methods: Six cows were given the pharmaceuticals carbetocin, oxytocin and prostaglandin (PG) F2α (dinoprost) intramuscularly and PGE2 intravenously. The physiological myometrial activity was recorded for 15 minutes and the induced activity for 105 minutes by using a transcervically attached pressure probe containing six pressure micro-transducers. Results: Lower pressures were measured in dioestrus com pared to oestrus before (dioestrus 3.2 ± 8.88 mmHg, oestrus 12.4 ± 13.23 mmHg, p < 0.0001) and after the drug administration. Carbetocin provoked the longest lasting effect (60 minutes in dioestrus, 75 minutes in oestrus) followed by PGE2 (45 minutes in dioestrus, 60 minutes in oestrus), PGF2α (30 minutes each) and oxytocin (15 minutes in oestrus only). In contrast to the other drugs carbetocin did not cause any pressure decrease beneath the base level after the primary pressure increase in dioestrus. In dioestrus the pressure before drug administration was significantly higher in the cervix (3.6 ± 19.40 mmHg) and the uterine body (7.1 ± 36.10 mmHg) than in the uterine horn (1.1 ± 7.21 mmHg). Conversely, in oestrus the pressure in the uterine horn (16.6 ± 17.73 mmHg) was significantly higher than in the uterine body (6.2 ± 16.59 mmHg) and the cervix (10.4 ± 17.91 mmHg). Drug administration in dioestrus caused a cornual pressure increase and the pressure in the uterine body decreased, whereas in oestrus the pressure increased in all uterine segments. The physiological frequency of the pressure waves in dioestrus was 5.2 ± 3.02 in 15 minutes compared to 7.5 ± 2.89 in 15 minutes in oestrus. No traceable changes of the contraction frequency were found after medication. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Carbetocin caused the most enduring increase in intrauterine pressure in dioestrus and oestrus and may therefore be indicated best for therapeutic use. The tested drugs had the same effects on the various uterine segments and no effect on the contraction frequency.
3D numerical modelling of soil–structure interaction during EPB tunnelling
Authors: FARGNOLI V. , GRAGNANO C.G. , BOLDINI D. , AMOROSI A.
Published: January 2015

The paper illustrates a three-dimensional finite-element analysis aimed at back-predicting the response of a multi-storey reinforced concrete building underpassed by a metro tunnel. The study refers to the case of the Milan metro line 5, recently built in coarse-grained materials using an earth pressure balance machine, for which settlement measurements along ground and building sections were available. The soil behaviour is modelled using an advanced constitutive model that, when combined with a proper simulation of the excavation process, proves to realistically reproduce the subsidence profiles recorded in free-field conditions. The building is found to modify the deformative pattern at the ground surface in relation to its stiffness and weight, reducing the differential settlements as compared to those calculated under free-field conditions. Results of the numerical simulation carried out, including the model of the building schematised in detail, are found to be in good agreement with the monitoring data. They thus indirectly confirm the satisfactory performance of the adopted numerical approach, which takes into account a unique model of the soil, the tunnel and the building – that is, the key ingredients of this interaction problem. Further analyses are also carried out modelling the building, adopting different levels of detail. The results highlight that, for the case under study, the simplified approach based on the equivalent plate schematisation is inadequate to capture the real displacement field. The overall behaviour of the system proves to be mainly influenced by the buried portion of the building, including its foundation elements, which plays an essential role in the interaction mechanism.
The Possible Occurrence of Oil and Gas Fields in Washington
Authors: Weaver Charles E.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 239–249.

During the past few years there has been considerable activity in prospecting for oil and gas in several parts of western Washington. From time to time seepages of oil or emanations of gas have been re- ported from various places. Several companies have been organized for the purpose of drilling, but only a part of these have actually begun operations. In certain localities very small seepages of oil occur, but up to the present time no oil or gas in commercial quantities has been obtained.

In order to determine the conditions which may be favorable or un- favorable to the occurrence of petroleum it becomes necessary to know the character and extent of the geological formations in which such deposits might occur. In other regions where producing wells have been developed it is possible to know what formations contain the oil and what structural conditions influence its concentration in reservoirs or zones. It is usually possible to determine those strata which contained the materials from which the petroleum may have been derived and also the position and distribution of the more porous sandstone belts into which it may have collected. Detailed stratigraphic surveys may even determine the depth at which a certain known oil-bearing zone may be tapped at any particular place. It is also possible to recognize those formations which are presumably barren of oil, as well as those which are absolutely so.

In new regions far distant from any of those which are now producing or have produced in the past, it becomes absolutely impossible to foretell whether oil may exist in commercial quantities or not. Assuming that such deposits do exist, it is extremely difficult to predict at what depth the producing zone or zones occur. However, in prospecting in a new and unexplored region, use should be made of such laws as have been found to govern the occurrence of petroleum deposits in other well-developed fields. Such deposits in their world-wide distribution are found almost exclusively associated with sedimentary rocks. Areas composed predominatingly of igneous and metamorphosed rocks are to be regarded as extremely unfavorable localities for the occurrence of commercial deposits of oil or gas.

T.P. 052–19
Oil, Gas, and Water Content of Dakota Sand in Canada and United States
Authors: Huntley L.G.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 329–352.

Introduction

In view of the recent advance made in the knowledge of the nature and conditions accompanying the occurrence of oil and gas, and of the recent activity in drilling in Wyoming, Montana, and western Canada, a discussion of the probabilities of obtaining production in such a reservoir as the Dakota sand in General, and in particular districts, is thought by the author to be timely and likely to result in more intelligent operating in certain parts of the territory underlain by this sand. In Canada particularly it is thought that these general considerations have equal if not more significance in a consideration of the oil and gas possibilities of the formations than have the various local conditions.

Age of Nature of Deposition of the Dakota Sand

The Dakota is distinctive in that it is known to form a generally continuous sheet of sand underlying the greater part of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, North and South Dakota, Montana, and large areas in Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming. It does not seem to have been laid down in more or less isolated lenses, as has been the case with most oil-sand horizons.

Except in northern Alberta, the Dakota sand contains fresh-water fauna, having been deposited very uniformly over these wide areas in shallow water with prevailing strong currents. In northern Alberta marine and brackish water conditions prevailed. In this district it forms the basal member of the Cretaceous sediments, directly overlaying beds of Devonian limestone along a great unconformity in the Athabasca River valley and eastward. In southern and western Alberta it is underlain uncomformably by the Kootenay shales (Lower Cretaceous), and by Jurassic and Carboniferous rocks. In the United States in South Dakota it was in places deposited upon Cambrian quartzites, and in other places directly upon the granite.

T.P. 052–24
Correlation and Geological Structure of the Alberta Oil Fields
Authors: Dowling D.B.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 353–362.

The interest which has been aroused in prospecting for oil in the foothills of southern Alberta, and in the oil possibilities of the known gas fields situated in the less-disturbed areas, called for a much closer examination of the structure, thickness, and composition of the under- lying rocks of the region than had hitherto been made. The areal geology of the larger part of the great plains was outlined by Dawson, McConnell, and Tyrrell, between 1881 and 1885. The foothill area was not critically examined at that time, owing to the time which would have been required for its proper study and the difficulty that was found in recognizing in the foothills the divisions which had been adopted in the mapping of the formations of the plains. This was due in great measure to the paucity of exposures in continuous sections of the lower divisions of the Upper Cretaceous. Since the pioneer work on the plains was published, the beds which form continuations south into Montana have been critically examined, The Canadian beds arch over the end of a flat anticline which rises to the south; and two sections in Montana, one on each side of the anticline, help to explain some of the difficulties previously encountered in the mapping of the measures found in the foothills. The index map, Fig. 1, shows the area studied, and its relation to southeastern Alberta, and to Montana.

Problems of Correlation

The principal difficulty experienced in correlation was in connection with the measures known as the Montana group. The beds of this group did not seem to agree in the two Montana sections. They showed the same differences to some extent as are encountered in comparing the foothill measures with those of the plains.

The Montana group in Dakota and Manitoba consists of a series of shales of marine origin.

T.P. 052–25
The Role and Fate of the Connate Water in Oil and Gas Sands
Authors: Johnson Roswell H.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 587–610.

What becomes of the water which must have filled the oil and gas sands at the time of deposition, has long puzzled students of oil and gas and has found expression in Munn's well-known article on the hydraulic theory. Both Munn and Clapp have pointed out that in the Appalachian field the deeper sands carry increasingly less proportionate amounts of water.

It seems to me probable that the principal source of oil and gas has been in the shales in proximity to the sands which now contain these products. The sand spits which mark off the lagoons from the sea comply particularly with the requirements of a limited sand imbedded in shales rich in organic matter.

Cunningham Craig has objected to this view that the rich organic muds of lagoons are found only at the surface. That such muds do extend to considerable depth I am assured by Prof. Douglas W. Johnson, who has made an extensive study of the Atlantic Coast marshes.

As any particular sand body becomes weighted by a heavier and heavier overburden, the result of increasing deposition, a part of the very large percentage of water in the uncompacted sand and mud is forced out. The water percentage of freshly settled mud is vastly higher than that of the resultant shales, or even of a very porous sand. If beds of less compressible material meet or underlie the shales in question, there will frequently be a lateral motion along such beds to some point where the upward movement will be resumed.

We find in our laboratory work here that oil, gas, and water have extremely slight capacity for gravitational sorting while in a state of rest, but when moving the gravitational sorting is readily accomplished. As the oil, gas, and water pass a body of larger pores, the gas, owing to its lack of capillary attraction, is retained in the large pores.

This has been predicted by Washburne, Blatchley and others on the ground that the water has a higher capillarity and grips the finer pores in such a way that there will be a greater proportion of oil and gas in the large pores.

T.P. 051–39
The Petroleum Fields of Alaska
Authors: Brooks Alfred H.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 611–619.

Introduction

Petroleum seepages are known in Alaska at four localities, all on Pacific seaboard. These, named from east to west, are Yakataga, Katalla on Controller Bay, Iniskin Bay on Cook Inlet, and Cold Bay on the Alaska Peninsula. Besides these, a petroleum residue has been found near Smith Bay on the north Arctic coast of the Territory. At Katalla, Cold Bay, and Iniskin Bay there has been some drilling for oil, and in the first field several productive wells have been opened up. Alaskan petroleum, so far as its composition is known, is a refining oil, with paraffin base and low sulphur content.

Most of what is known of the geology of Alaska oil fields is based on the investigations of Dr. George C. Martin, of the United States Geo- logical Survey. A, G. Maddren, of the same service, has recently made a reconnaissance of the Yakataga oil field. The data to be here presented are chiefly taken from the following publications:

G. C. Martin: The Petroleum Fields of the Pacific Coast of Alaska, with an account of the Bering River coal deposits, Bulletin No. 250,

U. S. Geological Survey, pp. 9 to 27 (1905).

G. C. Martin: Geology and Mineral Resources of the Controller Bay Region, Alaska, Bulletin No. 335, U. S. Geological Survey, pp. 112 to 130 (1908).

G. C. Martin and F. J. Katz: A Geologic Reconnaissance of the Iliamna Region, Alaska, Bulletin No. 485, U. S. Geological Survey, pp. 126 to 130 (1912).

A. G. Maddren: Mineral Deposits of the Yakataga District, Bulletin No. 592, U. S. Geological Survey, pp. 143 to 147 (1914).

Katalla Field

The Katalla field is marked by a series of seepages and gas springs occupying an east and west belt, about 25 miles in length and from 4 to 8 miles wide. (See Fig. 1.)

T.P. 051–40
Comparative Costs of Rotary and Standard Drilling
Authors: Requa M.L.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 635–637.

In the fall of 1910, the Nevada Petroleum Co., operating in the Coalinga field in California, determined to drill a number of wells with rotary tools, in order to prove conclusively the relative value of the rotary as compared with the standard rig.

At that time, the rotary was but little known in California and its proposed introduction met with considerable criticism on the part of the operators and quiet opposition among the standard drilling crews. There were few men available who were competent to handle a rotary outfit, and these few had had but little experience in California fields. Machines as then built were much inferior to those now used, being lighter in construction and of a poorer quality of material. The shells encountered at depths between 1,700 and 2,000 ft. seemed to be too hard to permit of successful drilling, and at these depths the rig was changed over to standard tools and by them completed.

Because of the heavy depreciation, the time lost in converting from rotary to standard, and the comparatively small profit, it was concluded that unless in the future there was some material improvement in rotary rigs, nothing would be gained by drilling with rotary tools upon this property. Little or no drilling has been done upon the property since that time, but in the meantime a large number of men have been trained in the use of the rotary; in fact, many standard-tool men have abandoned standard drilling and, starting in as roustabouts, have become thoroughly competent rotary operators. The improvements in the machinery have been such as to remove many of the objections and the rotary drilling of today is in every way superior to that of 1910.

In contrast, a well drilled recently by the Kern Trading & Oil Co., in the east side Coalinga field may be cited. The first 2,500 ft. was drilled in 24 days and it is confidently expected that the water string will be set with a rotary at 3,400 ft.-a record obviously far beyond that made in 1910 by the Nevada Petroleum Co.

T.P. 051–43
Improved Methods of Deep Drilling in the Coalinga Oil Field, California
Authors: Lombardi M.E.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 52, 1916, pages 638–644.

The Coalinga oil field is located on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley, California. The structure is in general a monocline, the edges of the oil horizon resting on the foot hills and dipping gently toward the east. One prominent anticline occurs plunging southeast. The earlier drilling was done in the foot hills comparatively near the outcrop and the wells were shallow. The sands were followed eastward and, in the case of the anticline, along the plunge, the wells becoming deeper and deeper until the depth of 4,000 ft. was reached and passed. There is nothing to show that the oil will not be found in quantity at still greater depth. In fact, some of the best producers have tapped the sand at close to 4,000 ft. The recovery of oil still farther to the east, and therefore at greater depth, seems to be mainly a question of drilling.

In this territory the formations drilled through are chiefly sands and shales; they will not "stand up" in an open drilling hole; the casing has to be carried close to the bit, and it is always difficult to keep the casing free for any considerable distance.

Ability to carry casing of comparatively large diameter without conductor pipes for distances of 2,000 or 3,000 ft. or over is desirable in such territory chiefly for two reasons. It makes it possible to enter the oil sand with a pipe of ample diameter; it eliminates one or more expensive strings of casing which act only as conductors for the water string, and furthermore, in territory where waters are encountered which corrode steel rapidly, it makes possible the construction of a rust- and alkali-resisting water string.

It is always desirable to shut off top waters, which may lie within 100 ft. or less of the oil sand, with 10-in. pipe. Where the depth is so great that a practical weight of 10-in. pipe will not withstand the probable collapsing pressures, 8 ¼ in. at least is desirable.

About the limit of rotary drilling to date in California seems to be the setting of the 10-in. string at 3,200 ft., although the rapid advance in rotary work during the past year seems to indicate that this depth may soon be increased. It is my purpose now, however, to treat only of cable- tool drilling.

T.P. 051–44
The Practical Value of Oil and Gas Bureaus
Authors: Matteson W.Q.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 57, 1917, pages 1010–1033.

The Oklahoma legislature recently passed a bill providing for "the creation of an oil and gas department under the jurisdiction of the Corporation Commission, authorizing the Corporation Commission to appoint a chief oil and gas conservation agent, and conferring exclusive jurisdiction on the Corporation Commission in reference to the conservation of oil and gas, and the inspection of gasoline and oil, the product of crude petroleum, and repealing all acts or parts of acts in conflict there- with and declaring an emergency." Some of the functions of the new bureau include the receiving and filing of all well logs, and the direction and supervision of plugging all abandoned oil and gas wells, under rules prescribed by the Corporation Commission.

The two leading petroleum-producing States of the country, Oklahoma and California, have now established oil and gas bureaus with a staff of inspectors to see that the important rules relating to the conservation of oil and gas are thoroughly enforced. The economic significance and the value of well logs in the conservation work has been recognized, and the necessary legal action taken to insure and procure them. William B. Heroy, of the Government Land Classification Board, in a personal communication to the writer, says that the drilling of wells is also regulated by public authority in the Roswell artesian basin in southeastern New Mexico, where a permit must be obtained for the drilling of any well and a certified log of the well recorded with a county official. The method is said to give fairly satisfactory results.

In a recent article 1 a National instead of a State Bureau was suggested for collecting and filing well logs. In discussing the paper, L. L. Hutchison characterized such a plan as impractical because the average driller or contractor will often juggle or guess at the log and will not keep the record sufficiently close or accurate, making it necessary to maintain a special man at each well for the sole purpose of obtaining such data correctly, a procedure that is expensive.

T.P. 057–50
The Need and Advantages of a National Bureau of Well-Log Statistics
Authors: Matteson W.G.
Published: January 2015

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 57, 1917, pages 881–891.

In 1915, the State of California passed a law of great scope and importance. This law has been in successful operation for a year and may be briefly described as an act "establishing and creating a department of the State Mining Bureau for the protection of the natural resources of petroleum and gas from waste and destruction through improper operations in production; providing for the inspection of petroleum and gas wells; requiring all persons operating petroleum and gas wells to make certain reports" and providing the necessary officers and assessments to carry out the provisions of the act.

The statute provides for a separate department of the State Mining Bureau, under the general supervision of the State mineralogist, with a staff composed of a "state oil and gas supervisor" and four deputies.

It rules that all petroleum and natural gas wells shall be drilled, operated or abandoned under the supervision of the State supervisor, who shall order such tests or remedial work as seems to him necessary to protect the interests of property owners and the general public.

It also provides for a board of arbitration to consider orders given by the supervisor which are not acceptable to the well owner.

Section 18 of the act, which is the provision that is directly related to this paper, requires ('the owner of any well referred to in this act to keep a careful and accurate log of the drilling of such well," and further re- quires that this log shall show the character and depth of the formations passed through or encountered in the drilling, particularly the location and depth of the water-bearing strata; the character of the water en-countered (so far as ascertained); whether the water was shut off, and, if so, at what point; that it shall show completely the amounts, kinds and size of casing used; the depth at which oil-bearing strata are encountered; the depth and character of the strata, and whether all water was success- fully and permanently shut off so as to prevent percolation or penetration into the oil-bearing strata.

T.P. 056–47