bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies for Maximizing Risk Assessment Utility
Authors: Ghoneim Tamer
Published: October 2013

In many instances, the execution of hazard analyses and risk assessments has become an exercise in completing a tall stack of worksheets to fulfill a project milestone, satisfy a client, or proceed quickly with a process or operational change. In many other instances, the risk assessment process may be completely omitted due to lack of knowledge or pressing project/operational need.

Organizations that approach risk management in this manner have the potential to unknowingly accept significant risks to the safety of employees, the environment, and to the reliable operation of their equipment and facilities which can lead to substantial financial loss and damage to brand and reputation.

In offering solutions and approaches for maximizing risk assessment utility, a review of the fundamental purpose of conducting hazard analyses and risk assessments is warranted. A general definition of the key terms, hazard analysis and risk assessment are provided below.
Optimum Lower Completion Design and Implementation for a Highly Fractured Carbonate Reservoir
Authors: Madan Mohammed A. , Mohamed Gad Yasser A. , Vicario Roberto , Galimzyanov Artyom , Gohari Kousha , Gavioli Paolo
Published: October 2013

The most challenging aspect of reservoir management in a highly fractured carbonate reservoir is determining a completion that has the ability to control the production flux and prevent early unwanted fluid breakthrough while maintaining the production. Throughout the years, Saudi Aramco has made much advancement in the field of reservoir optimized completions, by continuously implementing new technology and techniques that enhance the design and deployment of these completions.

When designing an ICD completion, it is critical to design a completion that is best able to provide production flux control while meeting production requirements, as well as considering key operational factors such as, safety, cost and the time required completing the design.

On a recent well in Saudi Arabia an ICD completion was designed to achieve an optimum lower completion as well as reducing the safety risk, the overall cost of the completion and achieving a faster deployment time by deploying for the first time in the Middle East a new generation of Inflow Control Devices (ICD) in a work-over well.

The new ICD contains several unique features, such as the new third generation ICD flow mechanism, the multi-tasking valve (MTV) and a built-in sliding sleeve. The new third generation ICD flow mechanism is a labyrinth flow path design that is strongly dependent on the fluid density (the lower the density, the lower the pressure drop across the ICD), therefore making the ICD viscosity insensitive to fluids; the ICD is virtually insensitive to viscosities up to 300 cp. Another advantage of the new ICD design is the adjustability of the flow resistance rating (FRR) feature that provides reservoir engineers further option in designing the lower completion. The new ICD design also features the MTV valves, which simplify the deployment of the completion therefore making the deployment operation safer and more cost-effective.
Prediction of Residual Cement in Drillpipe after Balanced-Plug Job Using Finite Difference 3D Displacement Simulator
Authors: Edwards Joseph H. , Fuller George A. , Palla Venkata Gopala , Yerubandi Krishna Babu , Savery Mark
Published: October 2013

Drillpipe (DP) work strings are used for continuous operations during the drilling phase and also for various cementing operations, such as running casing, liners, casing with inner string, squeeze jobs, and balanced-plug cementing. There are reported cases of residual cement adhering to the inside walls of the drillstrings after the cementing operation is completed, and the work string is pulled out of the hole (POOH). The residual cement ultimately hardens, and this hardened scale cracks and flakes off in various sizes because of vibrations and pipe flexing. There is a possibility that the larger sizes of scale may catch in the bottomhole assembly (BHA), plugging the measuring while drilling (MWD) tools, downhole motor, and even the bit. Cement scale may also plug work strings used in cementing plug and squeeze operations. In offshore deepwater operations, pulling out a plugged BHA or work string could cost USD millions in lost time, depending on the depth of the wellbore. During primary cementing, where the DP is used to run the casing, the cement scale from the reused DP could plug the float equipment, which may cause the premature release of the wiper plugs, packoff at tight restriction, or affect the hanger setting tools and may result in a major job failure.

A primary cause for residual cement on the inside of DP is zero velocity at the wall-fluid interface caused by a no-slip condition. A 3D displacement simulator was used to perform post-job analysis for two balanced-plug jobs on a deepwater Gulf of Mexico (GOM) well to predict the residual cement. The simulator solves momentum conservation equations for the velocity field, and a convective-diffusion equation for the concentration field. The deepwater GOM well had a work string consisting of a tapered string of 6.625-in. DP (0 to 10,500 ft) followed by 5-in. DP (10,500 to 23,800 ft) and 3.5-in. DP (23,800 to 24,800 ft). The selection, provision, and proper preparation of the DPs is solely the responsibility of the operator. The effects of wiper darts and fluid volumes on the thickness of the residual cement layer were also simulated. This type of 3D displacement simulator can be extremely valuable as a prejob cementing design tool and for post-job analyses.
Detailed Laboratory Investigation of Acid Soluble Cements as Solution for Lost Circulation Across the Producing Zones
Authors: Seymour Brian , Santra Ashok
Published: October 2013

Lost circulation or total loss of drilling fluid or cement slurries in the cavernous formation, permeable zones and natural/induced fractured zones during the drilling and/or cementing operation can be an expensive and time-consuming problem. The consequences of lost circulation could be from the possibility of a blowout to the complete loss of well. Typical solutions for lost circulation has been a pill containing in-soluble materials like platelets, fibers or sized particulates. However, such in-soluble or non-removable materials can cause permanent damage to the producing zones by plugging pores due to in-soluble fines migrations. In some cases, plug dislodgment the can cause premature return of the lost-circulation itself.

This paper describes the results from our laboratory development of two different kind of acid soluble cement systems namely (a) traditional Portland cement based system with appropriate amount of CaCO3 and (b) Magnesium-Oxychloride-Cement (MOC). In both these systems, sized CaCO3 has been used to enhance the bridging effect at highly permeable formations. In addition, we have carried out extensive research to optimize the final set cement compressive strength by optimizing particle size distribution of CaCO3 In addition to bridging capabilities, these fluids can be foamed to enhance the capability of preventing severe lost circulations. Quick setting and 100% acid solubility properties of the MOC systems is the key for minimizing the damage of the producing zones from fines plugging and/or deeper invasion. Laboratory results such as thickening time, compressive strength, and rate of acid solubility will be discussed to compare these two systems in terms of their application pros and cons. In addition, other plausible applications for such acid soluble settable systems will be discussed for both oil and gas wells as a temporary plugging materials.
A Holistic Approach to Screening Stage of Shale Gas Resources
Authors: Navarette Mike , Chorn Larry , Maucec Marko
Published: October 2013

Source rock reservoirs (SRRs) are found in conventional oil and gas basins. The exploration for and the evaluation of an SRR depends on the geology, geochemistry, and petrophysical and geomechanical parameters, as well as economic constraints in the targeted area. The SRR exploration methodology is fundamentally different from conventional exploration as SRR objectives require a program that includes a data-acquisition focused effort in the early stages of exploration and appraisal. This paper highlights a holistic approach to shale gas development that has been developed in detail, encompassing more than 25 years of service company experience in US shale plays. Unconventional SRRs impose significant engineering constraints because reserves are spread out across large compartmentalized, stacked, or layered reservoirs, which are highly heterogeneous (faulted and fractured) and confine wide ranges of mineralogy. The objective of this work is to provide a better understanding of SRR quality and deliverability to assist with maximizing well productivity, improving hydraulic fracturing stimulation, and optimizing drilling and completion efficiency. This paper identifies critical paths and key technical elements or tasks associated with SRR basin screening and evaluation. Commercially successful analogs are used to evaluate and benchmark potential hydrocarbon reserves. A methodical approach that addresses the following key tasks is presented: Determine critical SRR attributes.Map selected attributes in the SRR model.High-grade the regions in the basin with the best potential.

This work provides a proven road map for the evaluation and development of SRRs. Critical paths with the associated key technical elements address and provide a project scope of challenges, which enable a holistic solution to successful unconventional SRR development.
Logging Sub-Hydrostatic, Single-Completion Wells with Concentric Coiled Tubing Technology
Authors: Ababou M.. , Shote A.. , Sturgon T..
Published: October 2013

Historically, logging sub-hydrostatic wells to determine water entry points was restricted to a limited number of wells of a particular construction. These wells had to be dual-completion wells or 9 5/8-in. cased wells, able to accommodate dual-string completions. One string would be used for running the logging tool via coiled tubing or wireline, and the other would be used for artificial lift and produce the well while logging.

Single-completion wells were a challenge for production logging runs because two strings of tubing and dual wellhead would be required, necessitating workover rig operations. However, for smaller cased holes such as 7- or 4 ½-in. casings, running a dual completion string is typically too complex or impossible. When operators had to determine water-entry points in fields with high water cuts, well intervention costs could become prohibitive to contemplate.

Instead, a conventional concentric coiled tubing (CCT) string can be transformed into a specialty CCT by adding an encapsulated single-conductor wire inside. The string can then be run with a modified vacuum bottomhole assembly and a logging tool to achieve production analysis and logging simultaneously.

Combining these two proven technologies into one solution is an economical way to produce the wells via the CCT and its vacuum BHA while logging the well in one run. It has economic benefits to operators by eliminating the high cost associated with installing dual completions and dual wellheads. It also enables logging in 7- and 4 ½-in. cased holes that were not accessible for production logging using prior technologies.

This paper will describe the revolutionary technology and case histories along with lessons learned. It will also describe in particular the applications of the technology for high-producing water wells.
Understanding Reservoir Quality Indicators in Marginal Marine Environment: Integrating the Advanced Wireline Measurements in Niger Delta
Authors: Cavalleri Chiara , Claverie Michel , Shrivastva Chandramani , Ossai Okechukwu
Published: October 2013

The Tertiary marginal marine clastics reservoirs offshore Nigeria have traditionally been treated as well-characterized for formation evaluation; however, reservoir distribution and quality could be quite variable due to the heterogeneities that went unnoticed. Reservoir sands in the study area are structurally controlled and depositionally complex due to various sub- environments architectural elements contributing to the pay zone. Different sands are analyzed with advanced wireline measurements of tri-axial induction resistivity, nuclear magnetic resonance and dielectric dispersion, in the background of geological understanding developed in nearby wells with borehole images. We also describe the new understanding of reservoir rock quality and producibility in a field where easterly dipping massive sand units are juxtaposed with thinly- bedded shaly sand units in a composite interplay of depositional processes.

The data are interpreted taking into account that both the sands and the intermingled shales are anisotropic. Thinly bedded reservoirs, which had been previously overlooked, are discovered and added to the reserves estimate. By reviewing magnetic resonance fluid maps recorded at different and deeper depths of investigation, the radial distribution of fluids is mapped in both massive sandstone and thinly laminated sections.

The data are further analyzed to characterize a set of innovative producibility indicators derived from the logging data. These include: invasion profile, high resolution volumetric analysis using sand and shale definition from image logs, irreducible water analysis and movable fractions from dielectric dispersion, and magnetic resonance T1, T2 and Diffusion measurements.

Different sand units are studied with these indicators, and heterogeneity is captured and addressed to resolve for more precise reservoir summation. Comparison with well test results validates the improvements in reservoir description from multiple high resolution logging measurements (at early stage of reservoir development) into reservoir models.
Study on Undulating Well in Anisotropic Reservoir by Semi-Analytical Method
Authors: Han Guoqing , Zhang He , Ling Kegang , Zhang Rui
Published: October 2013

To maximize the production rate and develop marginal/unconventional fields, all kinds of intelligent wells have been proposed and practiced in field, including multi-stage fractured horizontal well, multi-lateral or fishbone completions. Undulating horizontal well, also called snaky well, is one of the most common intelligent completions nowadays.

This paper presents a semi-analytical model for undulating horizontal well, which predicts not only the inflow from reservoir and pressure drop inside the wellbore, but also takes into account the interference among well segments. As the undulation index and cycles increase, the undulating completion can result in a good effective vertical permeability and inflow. Although the advantage is marked, the related technical challenges and high cost are increased correspondently. Thus, an optimization of the undulation index and cycle is required to maximize the project Net-Present-Value (NPV). Along with appropriate economic analysis, the proposed semi-analytical model can suggest and evaluate the field development in a time manner. Further, the undulating well can be a substitute for multi-stage fractured horizontal well, especially for dual porosity shale gas/oil fields.
Pushing the Boundaries: Tapping "Hard-to-Reach Oil" by Drilling High-Angle Deviated Wells
Authors: Bardalaye Jayanta , Al-Azmi Khalid Huomood , AL-Azmi Mohammed Saad , Belal Dawood Salman , Mudavakkat Anandan , Mukherjee Pradip Kumar , Al-Sabea Salem Hamad
Published: October 2013

The Greater Burgan Field is the oldest producing oil field of Kuwait. Till date, more than 1200 wells have been drilled in the field. Construction of surface production facilities, power line corridors, roads as well as office and housing complexes for its employees have put severe constraints on surface locations for drilling new wells. A fault block in the Ahmadi ridge that was expected to be geologically very prospective for hydrocarbon accumulation could not be accessed for a long time as it was below the Kuwait Oil Company's office complexes. Structural complexity and poor quality of seismic data around that area also added to the uncertainty.

To reach the producing Wara and Burgan sands, the wells have to be drilled through the carbonate Dammam, Radhuma and Tayarat formations which are potential loss zones – more often than not leading to total mud loss. Deviated wells drilled so far in the field were, therefore, restricted to a maximum inclination of 45 degrees with the kick-off point located as deep as possible to minimize losses. This put a severe constraint on the horizontal drift achieved at pay zone level.

Two high-angle deviated wells were successfully planned and drilled with inclinations of 50 degrees or more with shallow kick-off depths to achieve a horizontal drift of upto 1 km to reach the hydrocarbons locked up below the company office complexes. The higher inclinations also helped in maximizing the reservoir contact and net pay of more than 100 ft was encountered in both the wells.
Value Generated through Automated Workflows Using Digital Oilfield Concepts: Case Study
Authors: Al-Enezi Badriya Abdulwahab , Al-Mufarej Mishal , Anthony Elred Rowland , Moricca Giuseppe , Kain Jeff , Saputelli Luigi
Published: October 2013

With the goal of reducing non-productive time (NPT) and increasing operational efficiency, KOC decided to implement pilot projects to evaluate feasibility of intelligent digital oilfield (iDOF) concepts. The Kuwait integrated digital oil field in the Sabriyah field (KwIDF Sabriyah) pilot was implemented as a tool for real-time collaborative diagnosis and optimization of a water-flooded giant carbonate reservoir within the Sabriyah field.

Initiated in 2011, KwIDF Sabriyah is currently extensively used for the monitoring and optimization of (a) waterflood, (b) electrical submersible pump (ESP), and (c) gas lift (GL) systems. KwIDF Sabriyah has increased the operational efficiency in many areas of daily engineering activities, including (a) reduction of excessive time spent on data acquisition and validation, (b) significant reduction of time on the identification of the root of failure of equipment, (c) collaborative decision-making with key stakeholders, (d) minimization of time between decision to execution by means of operations support services, and (e) prompt re-evaluation of optimization initiatives soon after implementation.

This paper illustrates how the automated workflows are used by describing a typical working day at the KwIDF Sabriyah Collaboration Centre (CC) where the visualization of real-time well production parameters are provided to an integrated multidisciplinary team consisting of reservoir, production, process and well surveillance engineers. This environment supports the cooperative and proactive decisions never before achieved while functioning, not only in physically remote locations, but also in departmental silos within the company. An extensive case history is also provided to illustrate the new way work is being achieved and how it is adding value with ease, with the support of KwIDF Sabriyah workflows platform. The achieved results are reported in terms of sustained oil gain.
Kuwait Oil Company Devised a Customized & User Friendly Web Based Incident Investigation Module through HSE Live
Authors: Al Qattan Fahad , Alam Mohammad Aftab , Haque Mohammad Rashidul
Published: October 2013

During the year 2011-12 the Company had 487 incidents out of which 92% were of minor nature. As per Company procedure all incidents must be investigated. Accordingly all moderate & major category incidents are investigated whereas same is not the situation for minor incidents considering its large number; which require time & resource for proper investigation. It is a fact that minor incidents are indicators of moderate & major incidents demanding essential investigation of minor incidents to prevent moderate & major accidents.

Consequently with customized & user friendly approach, a web based module for incident investigation was developed in house through ‘HSE Live’ an online incident reporting & data management tool. Module is customized to KOC Incident Investigation & Corrective Action Procedure converting Comprehensive List of Causes into a web based application. Application takes into account the main constituents of immediate & root cause such as - Unsafe Act, Unsafe Condition, Personal Factors & Job Factors. Each potential cause has 6 different probabilities and each probability enquires about 7 likely situations. Module assists investigators in managing entire investigation process starting from formulation of investigation committee, identifying immediate cause & root cause, recommendations, action items, till generation & issuance of investigation report along with follow up action.

The utility of web based application was tested for an online actual reported incident utilizing the test server of HSE Live Portal. Subsequently the application was demonstrated before HSE Leadership and further upgraded considering their valuable suggestions.

Internally developed web based incident investigation module is a unique and innovative tool which is totally customized, extremely practical as well as user friendly. The paper shall demonstrate a typical but realistic web based application for incident investigation with optimum use of time and resource aiming prevention of incident recurrence.
Understanding the Key Parameters in Optimization of Steamfloods in Heavy Oil Fields with Application on SPE Comparative Solution Project
Authors: Temizel Cenk , Purwar Suryansh , Dursun Serkan , Hancioglu Baris
Published: October 2013

Heavy oil has gained significant attention and importance recently because of a multitude of reasons—growing demand of oil from developing economies, declining availability of easily recoverable or "conventional" oil, and significant advances in required technology. Even though the current estimates of heavy oil in place are three times that of conventional oil, they have only recently become economically viable because of sustained high oil prices. Improved technology has also driven down the recovery risk to minimal levels. The earliest recovery methods for heavy oil were largely cyclic stimulation, with steamflooding gaining acceptance in the 1970s. Despite other thermal and non-thermal recovery methods for heavy oil, steamflooding remains the most widely used technology. Current production by steamfloods alone totals more than 1.1 million BOPD.

Previous studies have established how steamfloods are affected by parameters, such as rock properties, oil composition, degree of steam override, sweep efficiency, steam quality, and steam injection rate. However, the capital-intensive nature and low profit margins of the steamfloods mean that each field development decision is crucial and the oil recovery and margins are much more susceptible to uncertainties in oil price, well performance, facility costs, and subsurface parameters.

While studies have been performed to corroborate the effect of subsurface parameters and economic uncertainties separately, there has been little advancement in terms of coupling all of them together in one unified study. In this paper, the effects of uncertainties on project net present value (NPV) are studied by coupling numerical reservoir simulation; a design- of-experiments based approach to handle uncertainty, an established economic model, and a commercial optimizing tool to determine the optimal field operating variables.
Heterogeneity Index and Fast Screening Processes Used in a Large Mature Field Designed for Quick Production Gains
Authors: Harami Khalid , Bolanos Nelson , Sharma Siddhartha , Slimani Karim , Abdel-Basset Mohamed , Pimentel Jose Antonio , Kiome Patrik , Rodriguez Jaime Alfonso , Al-Ajmi Moudi , El Doushy Ahmad , Al Mufarrej Mishal
Published: October 2013

The Heterogeneity Index (HI) process was utilized in order to demonstrate production gain opportunities in a very short period of time, in a large mature ME field with around 500 wells producing from different reservoirs. The HI process provided a quick screening method of identifying preliminary candidate wells with anomalous behavior (over/under performance) for further analysis and most importantly, provided the foundation for the overall Structure Production Approach.

This process; HI, can be calculated by utilizing OFM. A Cross Hair Plot has also been utilized to show the comparison of the HI of two variables in the same plot, creating an easy way to identify wells behaving differently from the average. The cross hair plot can be combined with X-Y Coordinated plot which reproduces the location of the wells.

The results from this screening tool were utilized to identify the families of productivity problems at field level, and additional fast screening was done at well level to identify candidates for production enhancement. Representative Wells were selected for detailed diagnostics based on the relevance and size of productivity impact and, the potential of its production rate or well deliverability.

Once a few "top potential" wells were identified, production engineering workflows were implemented in order to assess and forecast the potential of production incremental and try to determine and evaluate the best probable action.

Some of the key innovate workflows used to complement production enhancement were: Time- lapse nodal analysis (honoring production history and neighboring wells), rate transient analysis (to consume sporadic/low frequency production data), single wellbore modeling (based on logs and flow units), among others.

This paper will demonstrate the Production Enhancement Technologies Methodology, in particular the HI process with real examples; pending on data release approval from the owner and the progress of the operations.
Managing Technological Complexities in Oil & Gas EPC Projects
Authors: MOSSOLLY Mounir
Published: October 2013

Contemporary research in Project Complexity suggests that Project Complexity is considered to be split between two major orientations: Organizational Complexity and Technological Complexity. This paper addresses the Technological aspect only, with special emphasis on Oil & Gas EPC projects. The aim of this paper is to define and illustrate the aspects of technological complexities and thus understand how to better manage them. Technological complexity might be a source of risk in project execution and needs to be properly managed to mitigate such a risk. Management process of technological complexities is similar to managing risks in projects in terms of procedural steps, but it is not the same. Technological complexities shall be tackled taking into consideration that they actually exist or do not exist rather than just having a probability of existence as is the case for traditional project risks. Contrary to what might be thought; technological sophistication is not a source of technological complexity, simply because if a certain technology is availing and is proven to be workable, no matter how sophisticated it is, its complexity level is considred to be low. This paper suggests a method of measuring technological complexity level for determining its real weight. Once the technological complexity is measured, proper level of attention can be given to it, including the allocation of necessary resources for managing it. Manging technological complexities in Oil & Gas EPC Projects shall be a joint effort between various project stakeholders, each according to his relevant scope. This paper also suggests some best practices for dealing with the ever growing technological complexities in Oil & Gas EPC Projects.
Managing of Hybrid Steam-solvent Injection Distribution for Maximizing Recovery Factor in Heterogeneous Reservoir
Authors: Suranto Suranto , Bae Wisup , Widyaningsih Ratna , Muslim Muslim , Gunadi Trianto Adiputro , Permadi Asep Kurnia
Published: October 2013

Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage process has been done and successfully implemented for the producing of the Canadian heavy oils and bitumen. Although it is commercially proven, but it still uses high energy intensity and has high environmental impact. To reduce those side effects, hybrid steam-solvent is proposed as one of the alternative processes in order to reduce the problems.

There are some challenges in reservoir heterogeneity correlated with steam-solvent injection. In conventional process, spreading of steam-solvent is able to be controlled using bottom-hole pressure injection and liquid production rate. In heterogeneous reservoirs however, each part of the horizontal well will have different optimum operation conditions.

This paper presents a strategy for hybrid steam-solvent optimization using ICVs (interval control valves) to maximize energy efficiency. To provide an overview of this phenomenon, the synthetic reservoir model is built from McMurray Formation. Bitumen saturation distribution and rock properties are created using geostatistic method and validated using several wells. The reservoir models were run using several operating conditions to achieve the most realistic interpretation. Sensitive variables are steam injection pressure, length grouping of perforations, managing of perforation openings, and solvent concentration. Afterwards, steam efficiency and solvent affectivities are evaluated during 15 years of project life.

Simulation results show that the managing of steam injection will increase heat efficiency up to 7.4% compared with conventional perforations. Furthermore, in the hybrid steam-solvent injection, the recovery factor will be better 8% compared to without adjustment in solvent concentration of 10% volume. Finally, retention of solvent injection can also reduce until 30% by this managing of processes.
High Angle Sidetrack Applications of Motorized Rotary Steerable Drilling Systems in Complex Horizontal Wells
Authors: Dutta Bikramjit , Fawwaz Hassan , Suryo Sigit
Published: October 2013

A challenging cirmcumstance unfolded in the initial lateral 6 1/8-in section of a sidetrack horizontal well drilled for Kuwait Oil Company in North Kuwait. The original well was drilled by a competitor whose BHA became stuck in the "Mauddud A" layer formation at 9892 ft MD / 7509.5 ft TVD, in the initial part of the lateral section. Several failed fishing attempts resulted in a cement plug, burying the RSS and LWD BHA with radioactive sources.

Kuwait Oil requested Baker Hughes' expertise to sidetrak and drill the 6 1/8-in lateral section. The distance from the 7"-in liner shoe to the top of the fish was only 74ft. The top of fish is 7509.07 ft TVD, and the bottom of fish 7523 ft TVD.

A motorized rotary steerable system (RSS) was proposed by Baker Hughes to perform the sidetrack. No cement was encountered during the first 28 ft of sidetrack. The motorized RSS BHA successfully sidetracked the well, passing the top of fish by 2 ft, marking the first high angle sidetrack completion with RSS and modular motor BHA. After completing the sidetrack, the motorized RSS BHA was pulled out of hole (POOH) to pick up the LWD tools. The lateral section was drilled to well total depth (TD) with the BHA, and included the distance to bed boundary and triple combination logging while drilling (LWD) tools. Reservoir navigation services (RNS) (Geosteering) was utilized to geosteer the lateral section of the Mauddud B reservoir section. The proactive geosteering services enabled 97.7 % of reservoir contact to remain in the target reservoir (of the Mauddud B formation) despite encountering two faults with 10ft TVD upthrow.

The well was TD at 12832 ft MD / 7552.9 TVD-RT, near the bottom of the Mauddud B formation.
Beyond Hypothermia: Alternative Therapies for Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Hobson Andrea , Baines Julie , Weiss Michael D.
Published: October 2013

Neonatal encephalopathy remains a significant cause of death and disability worldwide. Therapeutic
hypothermia has become a mainstay of therapy and has demonstrated the potential for neuroprotection and repair after
neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. However, it has become apparent from published trials that hypothermia alone
will not serve as complete protection nor benefit all neonates. The complicated cascade of events in a hypoxic-ischemic
insult lends itself to multiple types of therapy, making a multi-faceted approach to treatment attractive. This review
critically discusses the broad range of medical therapies currently being studied and summarizes the animal and human
studies that have been done to date. Therapies that may act synergistically with cooling therapy are also discussed.
Molecular genetics and SSR markers as a new practice in farm animal genomic analysis for breeding and control of disease disorders
Authors: Teneva A. , Dimitrov K. , Petrovic Caro , Petrovic M.P. , Dimitrova I. , Tyufekchiev N. , Petrov N.
Published: October 2013

Molecular genetics investigates the genetic makeup of individuals at the DNA
level. That includes the identification and mapping of molecular genetic
markers and genetic polymorphisms. Molecular genetic markers (DNA markers)
are one of the most powerful means for the genomic analysis and allow the
connection of hereditary traits with genomic variation. Molecular marker
technology has developed rapidly over the last decade and two shapes of
specific DNA based marker, Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs), also known as
microsatellites, and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) prevail
applications in modern genetic analysis. Genomic simple sequence repeats
(SSRs, microsatellites) have been used for a variety of purposes, including
gene tagging, physical mapping, genome mapping, estimation of genetic
diversity, phylogenetic and conservation genetic purposes in farm animal
breeding. SSR analyses are applied successfully in parentage verification and
pedigree analysis, as disease markers and to locate the mutation in genetic
disorders in livestock animals. The ultimate use of SSRs markers is for
mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL), marker assisted selection (MAS) in
order to practice genomic selection and improve the farm animal health.
Developments in ?omics? technologies, such as genomic selection, may help
overcome several of the limitations of traditional breeding programmes and
will be especially beneficial in breeding for lowly heritable disease traits
that only manifest themselves following exposure to pathogens or
environmental stressors in adulthood. The current paper provides a brief
overview of the present - day application of microsatellites markers in
animal breeding and make significant contribution to the overall farm animal
health and resistance to disease.
Direct detection of Mycobacterium avium SUBSP. paratuberculosis in bovine milk by multiplex real-time PCR
Authors: Selim A. , El-Haig M. , Galila E.S.
Published: October 2013

This study aimed to direct detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp.
paratuberculosis (MAP) in milk by evaluating a multiplex real-time PCR assay
targeting IS900 and ISMAV2 sequences including the amplification of
PUC19-plasmid as internal control. The sensitivity of the assays was
evaluated by testing MAP isolates in broad linear range of DNA (50 ng - 5
fg/?l). For the validation of the specificity, 6 MAP isolates and 22 isolates
of genus Mycobacteriacea were tested. Results revealed that reproducible
detection limit for real-time PCR targeting IS900 and ISMAV2 was 5 fg/?l and
50 fg/?l respectively. By targeting ISMAV2 sequence, 100% specificity was
detected. However, a cross reaction with 5 ng/?l of genome of 3 M. avian
subspecies avium strains was detected by targeting IS900 and negative in
lower genome quantity (5pg/?l). To maximize the assay?s detection
sensitivity, an efficient strategy for MAP-DNA extraction from spiked milk
was assessed. Targeting of IS900 was sensitive and targeting ISMAV2 was very
specific. Therefore, a multiplex real-time PCR assay targeting IS900 and
ISMAV2 in combination with two commercial DNA extraction kits could be an
ideal sensitive and specific protocol for routine large scale analysis of
milk samples and other clinical specimens from man and animals.
Agro-ecological conditions and morpho-productive properties of buckwheat
Authors: Ikanovic J. , Rakic S. , Popovic V. , Jankovic S. , Glamoclija Dj. , Kuzevski J.
Published: October 2013

The effect of different agro-ecological conditions on morphoproductive
properties of buckwheat cultivar Novosadska was investigated during 2011-2012
at three different localities. The types of soil on which the experiments
were conducted were as follows: the eutric cambisol - in Valjevo, the
chernozem - in Nova Pazova and the grey forest soil in Nova Varos.
Agro-ecological conditions affected the growth and productivity of the
buckwheat crops at all three localities. The highest yields per unit area
were obtained on the chernozem-type soil (1.65 t ha-1), while the average
yields on the less fertile soils in the hilly and mountainous regions of
Serbia were 1.31 t ha-1 on the grey forest soil and 0.80 t ha-1 on the eutric
cambisol. The results showed that buckwheat can be successfully grown on
different soil types, since the experiments on all locations were carried out
without fertilization, i.e. using the natural fertility of the soil.
Treatment of pedestrian communication accessibility in the process of urban design: Case study of Institute for orthopedic surgery "Banjica"
Authors: Gacic Ana
Published: October 2013

The pedestrian communication in exterior design of the Institute for
Orthopedic Surgery "Banjica" was analyzed in terms of its physical
accessibility for people who have some difficulty in mobility. Checklists
were used for analysis of different elements that influence users mobility,
as well as photo analysis for a clearer display of the established barriers
to movement. The results showed the presence of a number of obscales which
hinder the movement of certain groups of users, therefore, the spaces of
pedestrian communication were evaluated as partially accessible. It can be
concluded that it is necessary to provide an accessible environment, arranged
with respect to human diversity, to ensure to persons with disabilities, as
well as for all other citizens, equal opportunities and participation in all
social trends and activities, especially the ability to freely access to all
health care institutions.
Removal of magnesium in spring water using the natural zeolite in a continuous flow system
Authors: Tomic Slavica , Knezevic Milena , Rajic Nevenka , Povrenovic Dragan
Published: October 2013

The aim of this work is an investigation of the possible application of
Serbian natural zeolitic tuff ("Igros Vidojevic" deposit, Brus) for
improvement of the spring water quality. Concentration of magnesium in spring
waters in Raska area (in southeast Serbia) is grater then 100 mg/dm3 and is
unsuitable for everyday consumption. The experiments includied investigation
of fluid-mechanics tests of the zeolite particles with diameters of 1.5 mm, 4
mm and 6 mm in a column with diameter of 65 mm and magnesium
adsorption/desorption experiments in the column with a diameter of 110 mm.
The results showed that using sodium enriched zeolite bed and using optimal
fluid-mechanics parameters, the concentration of magnesium in the spring
water can be decreased below the maximum allowed concentration of 50 mg/dm3.
Nanostructured materials for sensing Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions: Manganese oxohydroxide versus carbonized polyanilines?
Authors: Sljukic Biljana , Micic Darko , Cvjeticanin Nikola , Ciric-Marjanovic Gordana
Published: October 2013

Nanostructured materials including three different carbonized polyanilines
and manganese oxyhydroxide were prepared and evaluated as electrode materials
for sensing of lead and cadmium ions in aqueous media. Anodic stripping
voltammetry results indicated that all prepared materials could be
successfully used for determination of these two heavy metal ions. Carbonized
polyaniline-based electrodes have higher signal and lower limits of detection
(10-7 ?) compared to manganese oxyhydroxide-based electrode. Among the three
studied carbonized polyanilines, the one that was derived from polyaniline
precursor produced in the presence of 3,5-dinitrosalicyclic acid showed the
highest electrocatalytic activity towards the lead and cadmium oxidation.
Double Translocation: An Interesting Family History
Authors: Uysal A , Uludağ A , Sılan F , Erçelen N , Zafer C , Özdemir Ö
Published: October 2013

Double balanced translocations are particularly rare and the risk of a fetus with an unbalanced chromosomal anomaly is greater than for single translocation carriers. In this present case, we describe an interesting family history which included three generations. A couple, married for 4 years, was referred to the genetic clinic due to infertility and family chromosome anomalies. A GTG-band chromosome analysis indicated that the male partner’s karyotype was 45,XY, t(3;18)(q11;ptel)t(13;14)(q10;q10). The same double balanced translocation was found in two others family members.
In vitro cultivation and immunostaining of Lawsonia intracellularis strains
Authors: Szczotka-Bochniarz Anna , Podgórska Katarzyna , Nowak Agnieszka , Pejsak Zygmunt
Published: October 2013

The aim of the study was to implement in vitro cultivation of L. intracellularis strains using ATCC 55783 and vaccine strains, and McCoy cells (ATCC CRL-1696). The infection was monitored by daily observations under phase contrast microscope. Indirect immunostaining using monoclonal antibody was also performed. Large number of S-shaped, moving bacteria were found in the cell medium in cultures infected with ATCC 55783 and vaccine strain. Immunostaining revealed a high number of multiple cell-associated or intracellular red stained bacteria in the infected cultures. This study describes for the first time in vitro cultivation of L. intracellularis in Poland, which creates further perspective for more advanced research on this bacterium.
Did EU candidacy differentiation impact on the performance of preaccession funds? A quantitative analysis of Western Balkan cases
Authors: Denti Davide
Published: October 2013

After four years of implementation the EU funds for candidate countries, the Instrument for Pre- Accession Assistance (IPA), has shown a mixed performance, resulting in a statistically limited level of use of IPA funds in most target countries, though with some variance. This article intends to test the hypothesis linking such a differentiation with the presence or absence of the official status of candidate country. The analysis of the funds allocation levels, the funds absorption levels and the progress in administrative reforms nevertheless shows that candidacy status is neither a sufficient nor a necessary condition for a good IPA performance. Rather, the data show that the IPA funds were able to catalyse a good progress only in those target countries characterised by an average adaptation pressure, but not to spur laggards and frontrunners, recalling the hypothesis put forward by Radaelli in his analysis of the outcomes of Europeanisation.
Development of a Decision-Making Algorithm for Determination of the Optimal Land Use Function
Authors: Biłozor Andrzej
Published: October 2013

Although the arrangement of urban space use functions is the outcome of the activity of many different entities, it is not a random activity, as there are general principles guiding the creation process of such a structure. The correct selection and arrangement of areas in a city for different types of use is of significant importance for the fulfillment of economic, functional and planning needs of the city. The concept of land division therefore has a decisive effect on the spatial structure of every city.

The growing shortage of free urban space causes, or even forces, its optimal use. The optimization of land use functions in a city aims to verify mismatched land functions and replace them with functions best matched to the present natural and anthropogenic features. Adaptation of problem areas generating “spatial conflicts” should be based on the opinion of the city’s residents to reflect their current needs as well as on economic calculations. This paper presents a procedure for determining optimal states of land use as a tool in the urban space management process. The developed algorithm is designed to form the basis for conducting spatial monitoring, serving to analyze and verify individual land management forms in order to minimize the costs of transformation and maximize income.
Groups with every subgroup ascendant-by-finite
Authors: Camp-Mora Sergio
Published: October 2013

A subgroup H of a group G is called ascendant-by-finite in G if there exists a subgroup K of H such that K is ascendant in G and the index of K in H is finite. It is proved that a locally finite group with every subgroup ascendant-by-finite is locally nilpotent-by-finite. As a consequence, it is shown that the Gruenberg radical has finite index in the whole group.
Multidetector computed tomographic angiography in evaluation of neonates with suspected extracardiac congenital heart disease: experience in Vilnius University Hospital Santariškių Klinikos
Authors: Matačiūnas Mindaugas , Zeleckienė Ingrida , Gumbienė Lina , Tarutis Virgilijus , Tamošiūnas Algirdas , Laucevičius Aleksandras
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of extracardiac pathology in neonatal patients with suspected congenital heart disease referred to undergo multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography in Vilnius University Hospital Santariskiu Klinikos. The safety of MDCT angiography (intravenous contrast media volume injected, scanning time and exposure to ionising radiation) was also evaluated.

Patients and Methods: During the period of 2006-2012, in Vilnius University Hospital Santariskiu Klinikos 186 pediatric patients were referred to undergo MDCT angiography of whom 71 were neonates with suspected complex congenital heart disease (CHD) and extracardiac pathology.

Results: Sixty nine (97.2%) of referred neonates were found to have extracardiac pathology (36 had extracardiac vascular pathology only, 4 - extracardiac non-vascular pathology only and 29 - both extracardiac vascular and non-vascular pathology). In 47 patients diagnosis of extracardiac pathology was verified intraoperatively. Remainder (n = 24) of the group were not operated (12 patients died because of hemodynamic instability and inoperable complex CHD, 9 patients were scheduled for later surgery, in 3 patients surgery was not indicated). Mean contrast media volume used was 4.18±1.03 ml, mean scanning time was 1.07±0.77 s and mean effective radiation dose was 2.8± 0.69 mSv. No adverse reactions or complications were observed.

Conclusions: MDCT angiography is accurate and safe method in diagnosis of complex congenital heart disease with extracardiac pathology.
Steroid Resistant Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Dasgupta Malay Kumar , Das Sabyasachi , Guha Debasree
Published: October 2013

Takayasu’s arteritis (TA), a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the aorta, its branches and the pulmonary arteries has become increasingly recognized as a worldwide entity, with a variable spectrum of disease expression. Here in a case of paediatric Takayasu arteritis affecting purely the arch of aorta and it’s branches that was steroid resistant. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v33i2.7113   J Nepal Paediatr Soc. 2013; 33(2):144-146