bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Added Value by Resistivity Images for Wellbore-Strengthening Strategy Development in Cashiriari Field, Peru
Authors: Uribe R. , Carrillo R. , Cassanelli J. P. , Barret S. , Airoldi C.
Published: December 2010

The Cashiriari field is located in the tectonically stressed Ucayali basin, on the eastern flank of the Andes Mountains in Peru. The difficult and complex structure of the field shows naturally fractured formations, especially in the sandstone reservoirs. There are highly unstable shales which also have a narrow stability mud window in the same section of the wellbore. The wells in these formations suffer events such as mud losses, cavings, poor hole cleaning, tight holes, differential sticking, and poor hole quality.

Two factors cause severe mud losses in the Cashiriari field: natural fractures and mud equivalent circulating density greater than minimum horizontal stress. In addition, the shale lithologies require high mud weight to control instability. To cope with these events, the operator and the service Company developed a "wellbore-strengthening" strategy that used calcium carbonate and lost circulation material to cure mud losses and to increase fracture resistance over minimum horizontal stress. Mud losses were controlled or eliminated. The geomechanical model limits were increased—up to 0.8 ppg over the minimum horizontal stress for drilling and up to 1.6 ppg for cementing jobs.

A logging-while-drilling (LWD) resistivity tool was introduced in this project in 2009 to acquire additional logging data. This solution provided excellent LWD image quality that allowed the identification of the natural fractures as drilling progressed. With data from a spectroscopic tool, the understanding of the fluid loss intervals improved significantly. The understanding of the lost circulation regime increased significantly as natural (both open and closed) and induced fractures were recognized, along with extremely high matrix permeabilities. These analyses were quantified, and improved drilling practices were applied. Most significantly, these data permitted the design of cementing operations within extremely limited operating windows.

Advanced logging, wireline information-gathering technologies, and certain drilling practices led to solutions in the difficult drilling conditions. The data helped the team to plan a mud window which minimized wellbore stability issues and provided the control needed of the drilling fluid losses. We also gathered data for a complete formation evaluation as drilling progressed. The real-time data allowed us to make informed decisions to justify changes or to make adjustments while drilling.
Deepwater Equipment for Flooding, Cleaning, Gauging, and Strength Tests
Authors: Guimarães C. , Machado F. , Gasparini L.
Published: December 2010

This paper describes a subsea pigging and hydrotesting unit (SPHU) that provides technology for remote flooding and testing of pipelines in water depths up to 2000 m (6,562 ft). The benefits of having a submerged pump that uses seawater for tests are related not only to safety, but also to schedule and deck-space optimization.

The SPHU has the capability to filter and chemically treat flooding water while continuously regulating and monitoring the flooding and pigging operations. The system includes a subsea data logger that allows remote monitoring and logging of pressure, temperature, flow rates, and volumes. Once in place, the SPHU uses power available from a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). The ROV is used to control the rate of pressure increase in the pipeline by varying the flow rate provided by the ROV-driven pressurizing pump.

One of the most significant advantages provided by this equipment is that strength-test operations can be completed entirely on the seabed, moving the risks posed by high-pressure fluids to a location far from personnel. Various versions of the SPHU have been successfully deployed on over 90 pipeline operations to date, adding significant value to offshore projects by allowing more flexible and efficient usage of vessels. To better illustrate the use and benefits provided by this unit, case studies will be presented based on operations performed in Brazil in the last two years.
Unsteady and Pseudo-steady State Characterization of Matrix and Fracture Systems for Multiple Size Blocks with the Use of Empirical Correlations
Authors: Morales-German Gabriela , Rangel-German Edgar , Samaniego-Verduzco Fernando , Cinco-Ley Heber
Published: December 2010

This paper presents solutions to the pressure diffusivity equation for fractured porous media including multiple block sizes with a uniform distribution, for both unsteady and pseudo-steady states by means of dimensionless variables, the Laplace transform, and the Stehfest algorithm.

The general solution was validated through the classic Warren & Root single-sized block distribution and pseudo-steady state model.

It is common that in transient well test analysis, generalized plots of the models’ solutions are used. In this paper plots in time domain: " pwD vs. tD" and " tD [d(pwD)/dtD] vs. tD," as well as in Laplace domain: " spwD¯ vs. 1/s " and " s[d(spwD¯)/ds] vs. 1/s" are presented, showing the influence of the parameters that more strongly influence the behavior of the solutions, such as the matrix storativity ratio (ωm), fracture storativity ratio (ωf), maximum interporosity flow coefficient (λmax), and minimum interporosity flow coefficient (λmin).

As is known, the derivative pressure curve is more sensitive to the variation of these parameters, providing very valuable information about the reservoir. Thus, various plots including the derivative of dimensionless pressure in both time and Laplace domains, such as tD [d (pwD)/dtD]min and s[d(spwD¯)/ds]min, and their behavior with respect to reservoir parameters were also analyzed. From these plots, empirical and easy-to-evaluate correlations were obtained. Using these correlations, it is possible to calculate initial values for the parameters that characterize fractured reservoirs:ωm0, ωf0, λmax 0, λmin 0, hmax 0, and hmin 0. These initial values are very close to the real ones; therefore, ωm, ωf, λmax, λmin, hmax, and hmin are rapidly found.
Using Intelligence to Improve Efficiency in Remote-Oilfield Operations: Case Histories
Authors: Tirado R. , Haapanen B. , MacLeod J.
Published: December 2010

Unfortunately, most of today's oil and gas fields are not located in our backyard, or in easily accessible locations for that matter. The "easy oil," as many call it, is long gone so now we are forced to explore new frontiers, from ultradeepwater areas, to the Arctic Circle, deserts, or deep inside tropical jungles. These remote and inhospitable environments present a series of logistical challenges to oilfield operators. Accessing these areas, establishing the necessary infrastructure, and mobilizing personnel and equipment required to operate an oil field can be costly, risky, and time-consuming.

On the other hand, in today's modern business world, technology is employed on a daily basis to overcome geographical boundaries or obstacles and make us more efficient. Thanks to telecommuting, millions of workers do not have to drive to the office: the office comes to them. Thanks to collaboration through virtual teams, individuals do not need to work in the same physical space nor meet face to face to be able to accomplish tasks; which saves millions of dollars in cost and time associated with business travel.

This paper presents a series of case histories demonstrating how intelligent completion and production systems can be used to apply the same telecommuting and virtual team concepts to solve some of the logistical challenges faced in today's remote oilfield operations. An outline of general considerations and recommendations is also proposed as a guide for individuals planning to implement these technologies.
Effect of Liquid-Liquid Extraction Process by Using a Paraffinic Solvent in the Removal of Acidity in Colombian Heavy Crude Oil
Authors: Picón H. Héctor J. , Quiroga B. Haydee , Caballero D. Eivarth F. , Castro G. Jesus A. , Poveda M. Diana M. , Gutiérrez P. Jenny R.
Published: December 2010

Processing heavy and acid crudes involves failure risks associated to sulfidation and naphthenic corrosion in refinery equipments (Troncoso, E., 2009). In addition, acid crudes show a tendency to cause fouling in transportation pipelines and processing production facilities.

In Colombia, the increasing rates in heavy oil production have driven the development of technologies to remove contaminants like sulfur, metals and acids.

This work present the results obtained in laboratory test for the precipitation of asphalthene aggregateds applied to three different Colombian crude oils. This method includes mixing the crude with a paraffinic solvent, and following decantation and separation by gravity using a vacuum filtration technique. The acid content in the Asphalthene Aggregate fraction (AAF), and the Aggregate Free Fraction (AFF) was quantified using KOH titration method ASTM D664.

Three different solvent-crude ratios were evaluated in this study (3:1, 5:1, 7:1) and the results shown an acidity content reduction found was an average of 11%, a reduction of sulfur content, and increase of gravity API in 7 points. Additionally a decrease in asphalthene content in the treated crude (nC7 insolubles) was found in all scenarios.

A methodology to simulate Liquid Liquid Extraction process (LLEX) of acid and heavy crudes by tuning the binary interaction parameters of solvent-asphaltene pairs of pseudocomponents with experimental data is used here. The model predicts the process behavior under similar conditions than experimental test, and this allow to expand this study in a theoretical basis, reducing the cost in test and laboratory analysis.
LWD Bimodal Acoustic Tool Delivers Full Range of Sonic-Wave Arrivals
Authors: Llorente Carlos , Pineda Giser , de la Fuente Joel , Contreras Javier
Published: December 2010

The recent development of an LWD BAT™ Bimodal Acoustic Tool has shown that compressional, shear, and Stoneley arrivals can be captured by these tools while drilling. Mexico's national oil company recently drilled a deep water exploratory well to a planned depth of 4,752 m. A full suite of LWD tools was run by a major service company, followed later by an evaluation with wireline tools owing to the importance of this deepwater exploratory well.

The relevance of these runs was that the LWD tools provided the full set of curves normally generated by the wireline tools, including shear and Stoneley arrivals. A comparison of both technologies was performed, which showed that BAT tools can provide equal or better data, hole-quality dependant, than the wireline tools because the freshly-acquired logs from the LWD tools are not affected by borehole washouts, tool standoff, or fluid invasion.

Comparison logs were put together using the LWD BAT data versus logs from the competitor's latest generation wireline sonic tool. Evidence shows that both tools provided excellent data, with a slight advantage in quality for the LWD logs, as evidence of soaking and invasion had an adverse effect on transit-time arrivals on the wireline curves. This comparison proves the concept that sonic logging while drilling can deliver the same quality, or better, providing DT compressional, DT shear, and DT Stoneley arrivals under drilling conditions.
Real-Time Drilling Optimization in Sihil Field With Remote Operation Center
Authors: Loo Enrique , Arango Fidel , Millan Angel
Published: December 2010

Sihil field, one of the most challenging drilling environments in Mexico, is a block located 54 miles from Ciudad del Carmen in the Continental Shelf of the Gulf of Mexico and is part of a deep portion of Cantarell field in Campeche Bay.

Sihil is a structural hydrocarbon trap with a failed anticline and hydrocarbon occurrence controlled by faulting distribution, diagenesis, and dissolution phenomena in the field. Hydrocarbons produced include oil with an API classification ranging from 22 to 30.

Directional drilling challenges in this field include total lost circulation (Akal Block Cretaceous formation and Sihil Block Eocene) and drilling through rock with a high-strength compressibility (35-40 kpsi average). The risk is high for a differentially- stuck bottomhole assembly (BHA), borehole instability, and pack-off conditions, resulting in considerable non-productive time (NPT), loss of geological targets, and higher costs.

Initial exploratory wells required an average of 12 months to drill to TD, with many geological incidents, lost BHAs, and well construction issues. By applying drilling optimization technologies in real time with the Remote Operation Centre in Ciudad del Carmen, a major service company has helped reduce drilling time and the number of incidents.

Ten of the 12 wells in which optimization technologies were applied showed improved service delivery, less NPT, and greater drilling efficiency.

The Sihil 3 and Sihil 8 wells are the two best examples of what can be achieved, with each well setting drilling records (108 days for Sihil 3 and 84 days for Sihil 8) and reducing the original drilling program by 22 and 63 days, respectively, for significant cost savings to the operator.
The Value of Flexibility to Expand Production Capacity for Oil Projects: Is it Really Important in Practice?
Authors: Costa Lima G. A. , Gaspar Ravagnani A. T. , Sampaio Pinto M. A. , Schiozer D. J.
Published: December 2010

The selection of the best oil production strategy consists of finding the optimal number of wells and their locations, well flow-rates, well opening schedule, platform production size, water treatment capacity, etc to maximize NPV, RF, among others. But, there is always uncertainty in the determinants of these variables and also there will be risk. An increase in oil price may change the optimal number of wells. Similarly, with an oil price decrease, it may be necessary to shut-in some wells. The problem becomes more complicated because the production strategy must be defined at the early stage of the development. Then, management may find it suitable to pay for some flexibility that could be useful in the future and improve the project profitability. These flexibilities have two benefits. First, they reduce the risk of the NPV of the project. Second, they add value to the entire project. To estimate the value of flexibility in the management of an oil project towards profit maximization, we consider an offshore oil field with 28 °API and 98 million cubic meters of OOIP. Because oil price fluctuates, management finds suitable to start production with 16 wells and a platform with liquid production capacity of 17,700 cubic meters per day. This platform has extra-capacity that can be used in case management needs an increase in oil production, which, is strongly dependent on oil price. This extra-capacity adds value to the project since it allows management, the option to increase production in case of an increase in oil price. To evaluate this flexibility, NPV method is not the right tool, but real options models. We analyze the possibility to exercise the flexibility to increase production by drilling more wells in years 1, 2 or 3 after the opening of 16th well. In this study, we conclude that the value of the flexibility to expand production is not very high. This is unexpected, since in most cases in literature, the value of flexibility is above 25% of the static NPV. The reason, in this case, is due to the high investment in drilling wells and the low impact on the production curve.
Methodology for Cementing Low-Fracture-Gradient Gas Wells: Application in Cashiriari Field, Block 88
Authors: Santisteban M. A. , Mendoza J. R. , Barrett S. , Cassanelli J. P.
Published: December 2010

The Camisea project is one of the most important hydrocarbon production projects in Peru. Its importance for the growth of the Nation is becoming even greater as internal consumption of gas and liquids increase.

To date, the Camisea Project has successfully completed the first three development stages. The first two stages were in the San Martin and Pagoreni fields. However, the third stage in Cashiari field was the one that brought the greatest technical challenges. The Cashiriari Field required the application of the very best technologies available in the industry to successfully drill and complete the 12 wells (2 re-entries, 8 new producing wells and 2 cuttings re-injection wells).

The Exploratory wells drilled several years previous experienced severe circulation losses in the producing horizons. This condition made cementing jobs extremely difficult using conventional methods and technology, which proved to be the wrong choice during the exploratory stage. Nonetheless, a good cementing job was paramount in these sections in order not to compromise deeper reservoirs drilling.

The Cashiari Field is a group of condensate gas reservoirs with low fracture gradients, high reservoir pressures (due the gas columns), and somewhat high permeability with the added complexity of natural fractures. These factors combine to make cementing without circulation losses and obtaining good zone isolation a major challenge.

This paper explains in detail Cashiriari field problems. It then details considerations applied to cement successfully. The methodology includes the optimization of pre-flushes, the use of ultra-light, light weight, and standard weight slurries, along with designs to prevent gas migration. All this metholody is backed with laboratory results. Finally, cement evaluation logs are showed summarizing results obtained.
Sand-Control Project for the First Receiving Lateral Well (U-Well) in the World
Authors: Pedroso Carlos Alberto , Borges Carlos A. , Paixão Luiz C.
Published: December 2010

In order to drain some very distant reservoirs from a small fixed platform in Campos Basin, called PCP-1, a horizontal well with wet completion was projected. In spite of the forecasted high productivity well, this project was considered economically unviable due to the need of frequent interventions with an expensive semisubmersible rig, for maintenance of the ESP. On the other hand the structure available in that small platform does not allow the drilling of a long dry completion well to drain these distant reservoirs. The surprising and ingenious solution proposed by the Well Engineering was the construction of a satellite well, using the resources of a semisubmersible rig, intercepting a dry completion well, located in PCP-1 Platform. This project received the denomination of "Receiving Lateral Well" which patent was already granted.

As the target sandstones are unconsolidated, an efficient sand control method is mandatory to protect the ESP. An additional challenge is that the well will cross the sandstones horizontally, due to the well geometry necessary to achieve the interception.

Usually, the operator's first option would be an OHHGP. This solution however became unviable due to the reasons: i- after drilling the two reservoirs, both extremely depleted, an extensive reactive shale, almost 1200m long, should be horizontally drilled, with problems of well stability in the shales and loss and/or differential pressure stucking in the reservoir. ii- the well should drain two different reservoirs, with an Oil/Water contact located in the lower reservoir: selectivity, therefore, is highly desirable.

The sand control method chosen to drain these two reservoirs was four "stacked" horizontal frac pack. As the operator does not have experience to frac-pack in these conditions, an extensive analysis was made trying to maximize the possibility of success of this complex well, what includes: analysis of the well azimuth relatively to the fracture propagation direction, the perforation strategy, the sand control design, the choice of the best group of tools (through a design competition), etc..

The present work aims to shortly describe the complete project for the receiving lateral well construction and deeply depict this very challenging sand control project.
First Campos Basin Raw-Water-Injection Well: Sand Control and Stimulation
Authors: Pedroso Carlos Alberto , Denadai Nilson José , Duarte Eduardo Lopes
Published: December 2010

As part of the production sustainability project for the Albacora Field, in Campos Basin, Brazil, it has been planned to inject raw water (RWI) above the fracture pressure (IAFP). The main drive for choosing RWI was the big difficulty to properly treat the injection water in the very busy Albacora platforms.

The injection target reservoirs are unconsolidated, demanding a robust sand control method. The operator's first choice would be an OHHGP with premium screens. However, due to extremely aggressive amount of dissolved oxygen, the RWI demands a very special metallurgy. The manufacturing and acquisition process of mesh premium screen or wire wrapped screens, in this special metallurgy are extremely expensive and can last many years. Besides that, these kinds of screens are prone to crevice corrosion.

To cope with this new challenging scenario, an innovative lower completion was planned and executed:

use of a 4,5″ alloy 625 sloted liner, run in an 8,5″ hole; maximizing the slot opening to 400 micrometers, in order to minimize the plugging process and the corrosion by the non treated sea water and to maximize the liner mechanical resistance; use of 3 ABTs (2 ECPs and 1 swelling packer) to protect the production casing.

Also, due to the low fracture gradient, combined with an unfavorable mechanical configuration, it was necessary to reduce the risk of partial packing:

use of the Rat Hole Zero conception, with the pioneer application of a retractable casing shoe in the 9 5/8″ production casing; use of light proppant (alpha wave) combined with ultralight proppant (beta wave).

Besides that, due to the inexistence of inverted seals to provide the divergence for the conventional mud cake removal through an acid treatment, the option was:

the mud cake removal using a pre-cursor formic acid.

The desired injectivity index was not obtained and the contingency was applied:

backflow, followed by the bullheading of foamed 15% HCl (it was the first application of this stimulation method in a Campos Basin OHHGP well).

The final result, in spite of this great amount of technological innovations, were wells that fulfill all the reservoir engineering requirements.
Intrinsic Resistance to Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer
Authors: Moulder Stacy
Published: December 2010

Systemic therapy improves disease-free survival in patients with breast cancer, but does not cure patients with advanced or metastatic disease, and fails to benefit the majority of patients with localized breast cancer. Intrinsic resistance to chemotherapy is emerging as a significant cause of treatment failure and evolving research has identified several potential causes of resistance, such as drug efflux pumps, disregulation of apoptosis and cancer stem cells. Building upon preclinical models, drugs designed to reverse resistance to therapy are currently under investigation in clinical trials for the treatment of breast cancer.
Ovarian Stimulation: Is There a Long-Term Risk for Ovarian, Breast and Endometrial Cancer?
Authors: Lerner-Geva L , Rabinovici J , Lunenfeld B
Published: December 2010

Adverse effects have been related to infertility treatments. Infertility in general, and female infertility in particular, is a well established risk factor for cancer development, especially ovarian, breast and endometrial cancer. This article addresses the possible association between infertility and cancer development, with an emphasis on the influence of infertility treatments, through a meticulous search of the literature published thus far. While results regarding the possible association of infertility, ovulation induction medications and invasive ovarian cancer show no increased risk and are reassuring, results for increased risk for breast cancer and endometrial cancer following exposure to ovarian stimulation medications are inconclusive. Larger population studies with longer periods of follow-up and better adjustment for confounding factors are needed.
Methodological and Theoretical Approaches to the Study of Governance and Policy Transfer in Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Barabasch Antje
Published: December 2010

This introductory article offers not only a synthesis of methodological approaches, methods, conceptual considerations and theoretical frameworks that are introduced in the various articles in this special issue, it also reaches beyond this collection in referring to interdisciplinary approaches to the study of vocational education and training (VET) governance. The latter are specifically intended to assist in analysing the role of the individual, political groups or networks in governing VET and potentially determining a VET policy transfer process. The author explains how the study of governance is directly connected to the study of policy transfer and specifically introduces categories derived from the behavioural science in order to substantiate the thesis that existing governance studies have not paid attention to the essential category of the human or social factor.
Governance Models of Training for Employment: A European Perspective
Authors: Greinert Wolf-Dietrich
Published: December 2010

Internationally, the question of how to qualify the workforce seems to be of increasing importance for competitive economies. How can politics govern the quantity and quality of employment structures and optimise both? In this article a theoretical framework is outlined that has been developed for the analysis of institutional constructs serving workforce qualification. Its most important elements and mechanisms are explained in a model and a typology – both based on a European/German perspective.
Europeanisation and Policy Change in the Danish Vocational Education and Training System
Authors: Cort Pia
Published: December 2010

This article aims to analyse the interrelationship between the Copenhagen Process, EU vocational education and training policy, and Danish initial vocational education and training policies in order to shed light on the role of EU policies in policy and institutional change. The article points to the complexity of policy-making and the crisscrossing of policies across the globe. A major change is the acceptance of the EU as a stakeholder in vocational education and training policy-making and thereby an expansion of the policy space. However, the changes taking place at national level are incremental and the EU policy is translated in the national context, where it contributes to the re-accentuation of existing conflicts and fissures.
Disclosure and Secrecy in Employee Monitoring
Authors: Farlee Mitchell A.
Published: December 2010

ABSTRACT: Disclosure and monitoring policy are studied, where disclosure relates to information about the monitoring system. A moral hazard model is presented where employee monitoring occurs with some exogenous probability and the owner privately learns whether he will be monitoring before the employee chooses his productive action. Disclosure policy is an owner choice between revealing to the employee whether he will be monitoring before the action (Disclosure) or remaining silent (Secrecy). The results rely on the joint presence of risk aversion and limited liability. Risk aversion creates an efficiency/risk tradeoff where secrecy obtains risk-sharing benefits. Limited liability reduces these benefits, allowing preference for disclosure. Lower monitoring probabilities increase the risk premium required to obtain effort with secrecy. For small monitoring probabilities, disclosure is preferred even though less efficient production is achieved, because disclosure provides a greater risk-sharing benefit. For high monitoring probabilities, secrecy is preferred because it leads to greater efficiency despite a greater risk premium.
Factors Affecting Goal Difficulty and Performance When Employees Select Their Own Performance Goals: Evidence from the Field
Authors: Webb Alan , Jeffrey Scott A. , Schulz Axel
Published: December 2010

ABSTRACT: This study examines factors influencing the difficulty of self-set goals and performance in a setting where employees were able to choose their performance goal from a menu of three choices established by management. Rewards for goal attainment were increasing in the difficulty of the goal. We develop a behavioral model of the factors expected to affect employees’ goal choices and performance. Anticipated influences on goal difficulty include employees’ impression management intentions, past performance, experience, and prior eligibility for rewards. We also expect performance to be related to goal difficulty. We use a unique combination of archival and questionnaire data from 476 employees at several call centers of a financial services company to test our hypotheses. All predictions are supported: the difficulty of self-set goals is negatively associated with employees’ impression management intentions; employees with better past performance set more difficult goals; and both prior performance and goal difficulty are positively associated with current period performance. We conduct supplementary analysis examining the extent to which employees selected attainable goals and the impact this had on performance. We also analyze the extent to which ratcheting concerns may have influenced actual performance for those employees who attained their goal. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Honesty in Managerial Reporting: Is It Affected by Perceptions of Horizontal Equity?
Authors: Matuszewski Linda J.
Published: December 2010

ABSTRACT: This study examines whether changes in salary and the horizontal equity of salary influence the degree of honesty in managerial reporting. The study makes a unique contribution by examining whether changes in honesty are different when they are in response to changes in an individual’s own salary than when they are in response to changes in the salary of his peers. The results showed that when horizontal equity was increased by increasing participant salary (with peer salary held constant), the change in honesty was significantly different than when horizontal equity was increased by decreasing peer salary (with participant salary held constant). However, when horizontal equity was decreased, the effect on honesty was about the same, whether the decrease was accomplished by decreasing participant salary or increasing peer salary. The study also showed that after controlling for effects associated with experience with the task and participants’ own salary changes, perceived changes in the horizontal equity of participants’ salaries (measured by responses on a post-experiment questionnaire) were positively associated with changes in the degree of honesty in managerial reporting. In short, the results suggest that individuals make trade-offs among preferences for wealth, honesty, and horizontal equity, and that firms seeking to exploit honesty preferences should attempt to avoid the introduction of inequity.
Assessment of ultrasonographic morphometric measurements of digital flexor tendons and ligaments of the palmar metacarpal region in Icelandic Horses
Authors: Boehart Sara , Arndt Gisela , Rindermann Georg , Gmachl Maria , Carstanjen Bianca
Published: December 2010

Objective—To obtain morphometric values for the superficial digital flexor tendon, deep digital flexor tendon, accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor muscle, and suspensory ligament in the palmar metacarpal region of Icelandic Horses.

Animals—50 nonlame Icelandic Horses in training.

Procedures—Horses included 2 stallions, 30 geldings, and 18 mares from 4 to 20 years of age with a body mass index from 149.1 to 250.11 kg/m2. Transverse ultrasonographic images were obtained with an 8- to 10-MHz linear transducer and a standoff pad. In both forelimbs, the cross-sectional area, circumference, dorsopalmar width, and lateromedial width were measured 3 times at 5 regions of interest (ROIs).

Results—The coefficient of variation for all measurements of each ROI was < 5%. Comparisons were performed among and within structures and for each variable at all ROIs. Comparisons among horses revealed homogeneity because no significant influences of age, sex, height at the withers, or body mass index were found. Additionally, a characteristic skin condition interfering with ultrasonographic examination was observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The morphometric values of the structures examined were consistent with those reported for other breeds, although some differences were observed.
Molecular characterization of the L1 gene of papillomaviruses in epithelial lesions of cats and comparative analysis with corresponding gene sequences of human and feline papillomaviruses
Authors: Anis Eman A. , O'Neill Sarah H. , Newkirk Kim M. , Brahmbhatt Rupal A. , Abd-Eldaim Mohamed , Frank Linda A. , Kania Stephen A.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To characterize the L1 gene of papillomaviruses detected in epithelial lesions of cats and to determine the relationship between those L1 gene nucleotide sequences and known L1 gene sequences of human and feline papillomaviruses.

Sample Population—10 tissue samples of epithelial lesions from 8 cats.

Procedures—DNA was extracted from tissue samples. Primers were designed to amplify the L1 gene of papillomaviruses. Amplicons of DNA were sequenced; nucleotide sequences were compared with known L1 gene nucleotide sequences of papillomaviruses and used for phylogenetic analysis.

Results—Tissue samples were obtained from lesions (diagnosed as dysplasia [n = 1], squamous cell carcinoma in situ [3], or squamous cell carcinoma [6]) of the skin (9) and oral mucosa [1]. Two amplicons had 99% homology with the L1 gene nucleotide sequence of human papillomavirus type 38b subtype FA125. Another amplicon had 84% homology with the L1 gene nucleotide sequence of human papillomavirus type 80 and was considered to be a new type of papillomavirus. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that these 3 papillomaviruses were grouped into 2 clades that were not similar to the clades of Felis domesticus papillomavirus type 1 or F domesticus papillomavirus type 2 (FdPV2). The remaining 7 amplicons had 98% to 100% homology with the L1 gene nucleotide sequence of FdPV2. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that those 7 papillomaviruses were grouped nto a single clade with FdPV2.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results support the likelihood of transmission of papillomaviruses between humans and cats.
Effect of heparin administration on urine protein excretion during the developmental stage of experimentally induced laminitis in horses
Authors: Uberti Benjamin , Pressler Barrak M. , Alkabes Stéphane B. , Chang Ching-Yun , Moore George E. , Lescun Timothy B. , Sojka Janice E.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To investigate the effects of heparin administration on urine protein excretion during the developmental stages of experimentally induced laminitis in horses.

Animals—13 horses.

Procedures—Horses received unfractionated heparin (80 U/kg, SC, q 8 h; n = 7) or no treatment (control group; 6) beginning 3 days prior to induction of laminitis. All horses were given 3 oligofructose loading doses (1 g/kg each) at 24-hour intervals and a laminitis induction dose (10 g of oligofructose/kg) 24 hours following the final loading dose (designated as 0 hours) via nasogastric tube. Serum glucose and insulin concentrations were measured before administration of the first loading dose (baseline) and at 0 and 24 hours; urine protein-to-creatinine (UP:C) ratio was determined at 0 hours and every 4 hours thereafter. Lameness was evaluated every 6 hours, and horses were euthanized when Obel grade 2 ameness was observed.

Results—Mean ± SD time until euthanasia did not differ significantly between the heparin-treated (28.9 ± 6.5 hours) and control (29.0 ± 6.9 hours) horses. The UP:C ratio was significantly increased from baseline at 20 to 28 hours after induction of laminitis (ie, 4 ± 4 hours before lameness was evident) in control horses but did not change significantly from baseline in heparin-treated horses. Serum glucose or insulin concentration did not change significantly from baseline in either group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Urine protein excretion increased during the developmental stages of carbohydrate-induced laminitis in horses; administration of heparin prevented that increase, but did not delay onset or decrease severity of lameness.
Measurement of glomerular filtration rate in anesthetized and conscious rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Rabito Carlos A. , van Tongeren Susan , Zavorskas Paul A. , Stricker-Krongrad Alain , Robb John , Haupert Garner T.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To validate a method to assess glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in conscious monkeys via transcutaneous radiation detection after IV injection of technetium Tc 99m pentatate(99mTc-DTPA).

Animals—4 healthy rhesus monkeys.

Procedures—On day 1, each monkey was anesthetized, lothalamate sodium I 125 (125l-iothalamate) was administered via continuous rate infusion (0.0037 MBq/min); blood and urine samples were obtained for determination of 125l-iothalamate plasma clearance variables and estimation of GFR. One dose of 99mTc-DTPA (74 MBq/kg, IV) was also administered during the 125l-iothalamate plasma clearance test, and transcutaneous measurements of technetium 99m-emitted radiation were obtained by use of an ambulatory renal monitor (ARM) applied to a brachium of each monkey. Determination of GFR by use of the ARM was repeated on days 8 and 45 in the same monkeys without anesthesia.

Results—Sensitivity, accuracy, and precision of the 2 methods were similar. By use of the ARM, GFR determined by use of the renal rate constant (κGFR) was calculated; the value obtained on day 1 under anesthesia was similar to values determined via 125l-iothalamate plasma clearance testing on the same day, but was 16% to 23% less than that measured on days 8 and 45 in conscious monkeys.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The ARM method for assessment of GFR was less invasive, faster, and more convenient than the standard clearance method, but yielded comparable results. The need to train animals and size restrictions of the device may limit the use of this technique in other nonhuman animals.
A protocol for managing urethral obstruction in male cats without urethral catheterization
Authors: Cooper Edward S. , Owens Tammy J. , Chew Dennis J. , Buffington C. A. Tony
Published: December 2010

Objective—To determine efficacy of a protocol for managing urethral obstruction (UO) in male cats without urethral catheterization.

Design—Clinical trial.

Animals—15 male cats with UO in which conventional treatment had been declined.

Procedures—Laboratory testing and abdominal radiography were performed, and cats with severe metabolic derangements or urinary calculi were excluded. Treatment included administration of acepromazine (0.25 mg, IM, or 2.5 mg, PO, q 8 h), buprenorphine (0.075 mg, PO, q 8 h), and medetomidine (0.1 mg, IM, q 24 h) and decompressive cystocentesis and SC administration of fluids as needed. Cats were placed in a quiet, dark environment to minimize stress. Treatment success was defined as spontaneous urination within 72 hours and subsequent discharge from the hospital.

Results—Treatment was successful in 11 of the 15 cats. In the remaining 4 cats, treatment was considered to have failed because of development of uroabdomen (n = 3) or hemoabdomen (1). Cats in which treatment failed had significantly higher serum creatinine concentrations than did cats in which treatment was successful. Necropsy was performed on 3 cats in which treatment had failed. All 3 had severe inflammatory disease of the urinary bladder, but none had evidence of bladder rupture.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that in male cats, a combination of pharmacological treatment, decompressive cystocentesis, and a low-stress environment may allow for resolution of UO without the need for urethral catheterization. This low-cost protocol could serve as an alternative to euthanasia when financial constraints prevent more extensive treatment.
Use of a commercially available relaxin test for detection of pregnancy in cats
Authors: DiGangi Brian A. , Griffin Brenda , Levy Julie K. , Smith Bruce F. , Baker Henry J.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To determine the earliest day of gestation at which relaxin could be detected in pregnant queens by use of a commercially available point-of-care test designed for use in dogs, and to calculate sensitivity and specificity of the test for pregnancy detection on any specified day of gestation.

Design—Evaluation study.

Animals—162 female cats (24 queens from a breeding colony, 128 stray and feral queens undergoing ovariohysterectomy, and 10 ovariohysterectomized cats).

Procedures—24 queens were monitored for pregnancy. Blood samples were collected daily and tested for relaxin until 2 consecutive positive test results were obtained. The earliest day of pregnancy detection was estimated by counting backward from the day of parturition to the day of the first positive test. The uteri, ovaries, and any fetuses of 128 stray and feral queens undergoing ovariohysterectomy were examined grossly, and gestational day in pregnant queens was determined on the basis of fetal crown-rump length. Blood samples from these queens and from 10 cats ovariohysterectomized prior to the study were collected for relaxin testing.

Results—Pregnancy was detected by use of the relaxin test kit as early as gestational day 20; sensitivity of the test was 100% on and after gestational day 29. False-positive results were detected in 3 queens, 2 of which had large (approx 2 × 3-cm) ovarian cysts, resulting in a specificity of 95.9%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A commercially available relaxin test kit designed for use in dogs can be used to reliably detect pregnancy in cats.
Use of the measure of patient-centered communication to analyze euthanasia discussions in companion animal practice
Authors: Nogueira Borden Leandra J. , Adams Cindy L. , Bonnett Brenda N. , Shaw Jane R. , Ribble Carl S.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To characterize veterinarian-client communication with undisclosed standardized clients (USCs) during discussions regarding euthanasia of a pet.

Design—Descriptive study.

Sample Population—32 companion animal veterinarians (16 males and 16 females) in southern Ontario.

Procedures—During 2 clinic visits, 2 cases (a geriatric dog with worsening arthritis and a cat with inappropriate urination) designed to stimulate discussion regarding euthanasia of a pet were presented by different USCs (individuals trained to consistently present a particular case to veterinarians without disclosing their identity). Discussions were audio recorded and analyzed by use of the measure of patient-centered communication (MPCC [a tool to assess and score physician communication behaviors]). Veterinarian and client statements were classified by means of 3 patient-centered components: exploring both the disease and the illness experience, understanding the whole person, and finding common ground.

Results—60 usable recorded discussions were obtained (31 veterinarians; 30 discussions/case). Overall, MPCC scores were significantly lower for the geriatric dog case. For both cases, veterinarians scored highest on finding common ground and lowest on exploring both the disease and the illness experience. Lack of exploration of client feelings, ideas, and expectations and the effect of the illness on the animal's function resulted in low scores among veterinarians.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that the use of USCs and the MPCC are feasible methods for analysis of veterinarian-client communication during companion animal euthanasia discussions. Findings suggested that some veterinarians do not fully explore client concerns or facilitate client involvement in euthanasia decision making.
Producer attitudes and practices related to antimicrobial use in beef cattle in Tennessee
Authors: Green Alice L. , Carpenter L. Rand , Edmisson Darryl E. , Lane Clyde D. , Welborn Matt G. , Hopkins Fred M. , Bemis David A. , Dunn John R.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and management practices involving antimicrobial use among Tennessee beef producers.

Design—Mail survey.

Sample Population—A population-based, stratified random sample of 3,000 beef producers across the state.

Procedures—Questionnaires were mailed to beef producers. Questions focused on producer practices related to education, biosecurity, veterinary use, and the purchase and use of antimicrobials. Operation types were categorized as either cow-calf only or multiple operation type (MOT). Associations between various factors and antimicrobial use were evaluated by use of multivariable logistic regression, with the outcome variable being any antimicrobial use (injectable or by mouth) in the past year.

Results—Of 3,000 questionnaires mailed, 1,042 (34.7%) were returned. A significantly higher proportion of producers with MOTs reported giving antimicrobials by mouth or by injection than did producers with cow-calf only operations. In addition, higher proportions of producers with MOTs than producers with cow-calf only operations reported treating with macrolides, florfenicol, ceftiofur, and aminoglycosides. In the multivariable analysis, herd size >50 cattle, participation in Beef Quality Assurance or master beef producer certification programs, quarantining of newly purchased animals, use of written instructions for treating disease, and observation of withdrawal times were associated with a higher likelihood of antimicrobial use.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that producers who engaged in more progressive farming practices were also more likely to use antimicrobials. Incorporating training on judicious antimicrobial use into educational programs would likely increase awareness of best management practices regarding antimicrobial use.
Effect of ammonium chloride supplementation on urine pH and urinary fractional excretion of electrolytes in goats
Authors: Mavangira Vengai , Cornish Jennifer M. , Angelos John A.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To determine whether dietary supplementation with ammonium chloride would affect urine pH or urinary fractional excretion (FE) of electrolytes in goats fed grass hay.

Design—Clinical trial.

Animals—15 yearling castrated male goats.

Procedures—In the dose response study, 3 yearling goats fed orchard grass hay and water ad libitum were administered ammonium chloride at either 200, 400, or 500 mg/kg (91, 182, or 227 mg/lb), PO, every 24 hours. In the FE study, 8 goats fed orchard grass hay were randomly divided into either a treatment (n = 4) or a control group (4). In the treatment group, ammonium chloride was administered at 450 mg/kg (2.25% of dry matter intake [DMI]), PO, every 24 hours for 8 days. The FE of electrolytes was compared between groups; FE measurements were also determined for 4 client-owned goats fed alfalfa hay.

Results—Ammonium chloride administered at 450 mg/kg (2.25% of DMI) achieved and maintained urine pH < 6.5 for 24 hours. Goats fed orchard grass hay with ammonium chloride supplementation had significantly higher FE of calcium and chloride than did goats fed orchard grass hay without supplemental ammonium chloride.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dietary ammonium chloride supplementation at a dose of 450 mg/kg may be necessary to achieve a urine pH < 6.5 in goats. Further studies of ammonium chloride supplementation and urolithiasis in goats fed low-calcium diets are indicated.