bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory and Numerical Study of the Dissolution Process of Salinization Clastic Reservoirs
Authors: Vinogradov I. , Zagorovskiy A. , Bogachev K. , Milyutin S. , Gorbatko E. , Dolgov I.
Published: October 2015

This paper discusses risks of fresh water injection in the terrigenous reservoir of the Verkhnechonsky producing horizon where interstitial space is fully or completely filled with halite (naturally occurring salinization).

Strata of salinized sandstone are believed to be a potential "super" reservoir since when fresh water is injected in the layer it washes out salts and induces a manifold increase in the effective porosity and permeability. Such flooding may accelerate water breakthrough into the producing wells, creating water absorption zones and changing the displacement front. All that reduces sweep efficiency and, with that, oil recovery.

The work has focused on flow experiments with core samples to assess the dynamics of change in the permeability and porosity of the rock and arrived at important conclusions on the characteristics of desalination process. A mathematical model of multi-phase filtration has been built to account for the interaction of water with the reservoir salt which brings about changes in the reservoir properties of the porous medium and rheology of injected water. Numerical experiments have been conducted to study the impact of desalination on viscous displacement of oil.

The paper offers systematic information about the injection experiments with salinized core samples from the Verkhnechonsky formation. It offers a description of the mathematical model of filtration of oil, gas and mineralized water which serves as the basis for hydrodynamic simulation at different levels (from core models to a full-scale model of the Verkhnechonsky horizon).

The results obtained give insight into key factors that accompany dissolution of reservoir salt in the injected fresh water, as well as their effect on the efficiency of water-flooding of salinized reservoirs.

The study will be of interest for specialists at oil companies which have in their portfolio oil fields with subsalt and inter-salt oil deposits.
Modelling Non-Equilibrium Phase Behavior of Hydrocarbon Mixtures
Authors: Lobanova O. A. , Indrupsky I. M.
Published: October 2015

A physically-consistent method is suggested for calculation of coexistent hydrocarbon phases' compositions in flow simulations with non-equilibrium phase transitions. The method preserves standard flow terms' formulation and can be incorporated in existing commercial simulators without principal modifications to flow simulation algorithms.

Through the analysis of laboratory experiments data and computational studies, we show that the necessity for non-equilibrium phase behavior model depends on simulation scale. We introduce an upscaling algorithm to estimate parameters of a non-equilibrium coarse grid model.

An algorithm is proposed to calculate non-equilibrium phase compositions with desired level of non-equilibrium behavior and model different speeds of relaxation of fluids' compositions to their equilibrium states. Relaxation dynamics is determined by pressure changing rate as well as initial phase compositions and pressure. These effects are essential for consistent history matching of a flow simulation model of an oil or gas-condensate reservoir with minimal number of matching parameters.

Examples of using the method to simulate non-equilibrium phase behavior of real oil and gas-condensate mixtures are presented.
3D Geomechanical Modeling of Oil Field on the Basis of a Model of the Mechanical Properties for the Task of Wells Construction
Authors: Garagash I. A. , Dubovskaya A. V. , Bayuk I. O. , Tikhotskiy S. A. , Glubokovskikh S. , Korneva D. A. , Berezina I. A.
Published: October 2015

The paper is dedicated to the method of an oilfield geomechanical model construction based on common exploration dataset. Geomechanical modeling can be used to reduce well drilling risks in complicated geological conditions.

Following steps of model construction are described: (a) a construction of mechanical rock properties model; (b) a way to determine rheology, model boundary conditions, external loads and calculate stress state; (c) an evaluation of pore pressures.

Moreover possible methods of improving the model quality are discussed.

It is shown that taking into account the dependence of internal friction angle upon accumulated inelastic strain allows us to obtain more realistic stress-strain curve.

An influence of nonlinear salt creep on the orientation of the principal stress axes is investigated and discussed. As well it is discussed which laboratory core tests should be done to improve the quality of the model.
Real-Time Production Optimization of an Intelligent Well Offshore, Caspian Sea
Authors: Shestov Sergey , Golenkin Mikhail , Senkov Aleksandr , Blekhman Vadim , Gottumukkala Varma , Bulygin Igor
Published: October 2015

Recent advances in development of hardware for reservoir monitoring have caused rapid changes in production logging and testing techniques for instrumented wells. On-demand actuations of downhole valves and data acquisition from the downhole gauges remain available well into the useful well life due to improved reliability of the downhole equipment. A specific layout of the gauges could be tailored to support various types of production logging, and pressure transient and production tests1,2. Instead of the often costly one-off surveys required for a the non-instrumented wells, both data gathering and interpretation become part of a continuous surveillance cycle for an instrumented, "intelligent" well. The resulting exhaustively sampled data sets from instrumented wells are typically very large and require substantial cleansing and cross-calibration with a range of physical models as well as empirical trends to extract valuable information encoded in the data3. Most of these workflows also support decision making in real time.

The paper outlines practical ways of combining known well-testing principals with the modern downhole completion instrumentation to estimate production rate, productivity index, and reservoir pressure using surveillance workflows for a multi-zone intelligent completion in the Korchagina field, Russia. Data from permanent downhole pressure gauges supports a number of real-time workflows including those for zonal rate and productivity allocation. Sequential valve cycling can be interpreted as a multi rate inflow test and, when combined with initial well test data, can calibrate the rate allocation procedure. Meeting production goals for each of the zones requires a real-time optimization technique for setting the valve positions. The procedure was implemented in a form of automated surveillance software for pressure, rate, and productivity allocation and does not require shut-ins to obtain well test data.
Proppant Flow Back Control for Fracturing Low Temperature Formations of Russia Methodology and Case Studies
Authors: Letichevskiy Alexander , Parfenov Alexey , Belyakova Lyudmila , Konchenko Andrey , Borisenko Alexey , Parkhonyuk Sergey , Olennikova Olesya , Klyubin Artem
Published: October 2015

Formations with a bottomhole static temperature below 70 degC are very common for quite a number of Russian oil provences such as Komi, Samara Area, Orenburg, Tatarstan Bashkiria, and Eastern Siberia. Many of these formations are now being developed with proppant fracturing which incorporates a lot of flow back issues due to the various reasons including high viscosity oil, aggressive TSO designs and cycle loads on a proppant pack due to ESP change regime. There are a number of solutions to prevent proppant flow back and the most common one is usage of resin- coated proppants. At temperatures below 70degC RCP needs chemical activation in order to achieve a solid proppant pack consolidation. Depending on temperature range and coating structure various types of activators can be used. Traditionally commercial activators were used at very high concentrations that may compromise proppant pack conductivity and performance fracturing fluid. Alternative techniques are based on using fiber technologies and unconventionally shaped proppants.

The majority of flowback control techniques have been tested in Volga-Urals region of Russia, Orenburg, Samara and Bashkiria areas. Novel additives that accelerate curing, RCP was successfully implemented and pumped during hydraulic fracturing on the most oil fields of Samara area. Flow back problems were observed only at extremely low temperature reservoir (<30 degrees Celcius) with high- viscous (∼100+ cP) oil. Paper uncovers the details of activation process with detailed laboratory investigation for several RCPs and activators, proposes decision matrix for low temperature flow back control techniques, its applicability and design.
Implementation of New Multi Module Configurations in Wireline Logging Suits. Case Studies
Authors: Yakovlev M. , Feofilov D. , Zakirov A. , Usov I. , Sharipov R. , Dontsov E.
Published: October 2015

The report describes a logging technique applied by CJSC PGO Tyumenpromgeofizika on JSC NK Rosneft (OJSC Samotlorneftegaz, OJSC Varyeganneftegaz, LLC RN-Uvatneftegaz) fields for standard logging in uncased, directional and horizontal production wells.
The Information Support of Fluid Sample'S Lifecycle From the Planning Through to Analysis of the Laboratory Tests Results
Authors: Efimov D. V. , Shlychkov K. E. , Minikeeva L. R.
Published: October 2015

The paper presents an experience of developing and implementing information and analytical system (IAS) which provides informational, functional and methodical support for the fluid sample lifecycle.

The comprehensive approach is demonstrated to solve the problem set. The full process from scope or domain analysis and creation of main stages of PVT information flow to design of the project system information model and its technical implementation is described. To ensure the complexity or comprehensiveness principle the term ‘fluid sample lifecycle’ is introduced meaning transformation of PVT information when proceding from sample planning to the actual sampling and further to fluid sample analysis, storage and utilization of the analysis results.

The analysis of the domain or study area related to PVT data composition and usage identified the corresponding production processes and the main stages thereof, the information composed at each stage was also characterized. Based on this analysis main requirements for informational, functional and analytical components of IAS were defined. Moreover, these requirements may differ at each stage of PVT information flow.

On the basis of the analysis results the information model of IAS was created which provides storage of both the initial information on the sample and interpretation results of its analysis.

Technical realization of IAS implied the development of the two related but separate parts: the information core which reflects the information model and is aimed at data storage, and the interface shell which provides both the standard database functionality and tools to process and analyze the information.

Also in the framework of this work problems of the required accompanying and support documentation were addressed.
Development of Remote Gas Condensate Fields: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Nikonov A. , Pyatov I. , Kruptsev A. , Zhukov S. , Egorova E. , Lievois J. , Muravyev A.
Published: October 2015

There are many problems associated with the development of remote gas condensate fields that can be alleviated by seamlessly integrating key engineering aspects such as recovery plan, production optimization, processing, waste management, and logistics.

Production optimization requires monitoring of production oil, water, and gas rates along with reservoir conditions. This can prevent economic losses by providing early detection of reservoir problems like condensate banking. Multiphase flowmeters provide compact, cost effective well testing plus real time data for improved well performance analysis. Separation, feed preparation and processing in the vicinity of production sites is performed using compact modular equipment. Catalytic desulphurization ensures high quality treatment. New atmospheric pressure catalytic treatment technologies used for gas condensate and various quality oils enable production of diesel fuel (including Arctic) and high-octane gasoline. Location of fuels and lubricants (POL) production near oil and gas production sites can solve problems associated with delivering those supplies to Northern areas, ensure efficient sales of well production, enable year-round operation of special road machinery, and reduce operating costs.

A closed loop system integrating production optimization, feed preparation technologies, modular processing systems, electric power generation using gas generators, associated natural gas conversion into synthetic gas and container-based wastewater treatment plants produces a powerful synergetic effect and offers opportunities to develop hard-to-reach areas. Integrated modular production systems will help unlock Siberia’s vast natural resources both hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon. The potential for local energy supply may be a key economic consideration for further production of Siberia’s mineral resources.
Multiphase Metering Experience in Russia's High-Viscous and Foamy Oil: Lessons Learned
Authors: Lachugin D. S. , Davidovskiy A. O. , Abramochkin S. A.
Published: October 2015

Russkoye field lies in the northern part of Western Siberia and has great oil reserves of over 1.3 billion tons. This is a unique field in terms of its complexity for development. Challenges include remote location of the field, surrounded by marshlands, and harsh Arctic climate, thick permafrost layer, heterogeneity and discontinuity of rocks made of poorly consolidated sandstones, presence of a large gas cap and an underlying aquifer, unique rheological properties of oil, high density, viscosity, tendency to form stable foam and emulsions. Combination of all these challenges brought considerable delays in formulation of an optimized field development plan and commissioning program.

Accurate measurements of surface flow rates are key requirements for reservoir characterization and production monitoring on any oil field. Oil production rates, gas-oil ratios, water-cut data, physical, chemical and rheological properties of oil are especially critical at the test commercial production phase on wells of the Russkoye field. These data are the basis for monitoring production trends, gas breakthrough from the gas cap and water encroachment from the underlying aquifer, for inflow profiling in horizontal sections, optimizing well performance for enhanced oil recovery, and they allowed for solving primary engineering tasks arising during development and making production prognosis over the field life.

As first effects were delivered for test commercial production on Russkoye field, some issues were encountered in collecting accurate and high-quality measurement data that would provide a good repeatability. To find the best solution for well flow rate measurements, attempts were made for some years to use test separators with different metering modules and a multi-phase flowmeter with Venturi tube and two-level gamma gage. All above equipment had been proved and certified. In addition, calibrated test tanks are used in some well pads for fluid rate measurements. The challenges associated with the accuracy of flow rate measurements are caused mainly by unique rheological properties of formation oil, in particular, its high density (940 kg/m3), viscosity at surface conditions (∼700 cP at 15 °C) and its tendency to form stable foam and emulsion. These factors, together with extreme low-temperature environments of the Arctic, forced JSC Tyumenneftegas engineers to look for an alternative engineering solution to achieve accurate flow rate measurements on Russkoye field.
Experience of Using The Technology of Trouble Prevention In LLC «Bashneft-Dobycha» Producing Wells
Authors: Karpov Al. A , Mikhailov A. G. , Zdolnik S. E. , Kulmurzin R. G.
Published: October 2015

At the current stage of development the majority of oil fields operated by Bashneft-Dobycha are characterized by high water-cut of the produced fluids. When produced water is oversaturated with salt-forming ions scaling formation takes place not only in downhole pumping equipment of producing wells but also in the near-wellbore zone of the reservoir.

Presently the main preventive techniques against scaling or salt precipitation in wells include cyclic adding of chemicals through the annulus, continuous batching of chemicals with dosing pumps into the annulus or through a capillary tube at the suction pipe of a pump. Less common are submersible downhole containers.

These techniques have been field-proven as successfully protecting pumps and production tubings against scale formation however they are incapable of limiting salt precipitation in the interval from the near-wellbore zone in the reservoir to the suction pipe as inhibitors are injected after salt crystals start growing intensively. Squeezing of scale inhibitors into a productive reservoir is a good alternative to the techniques mentioned above as this treatment provides combined protection of the near-wellbore zone and downhole pumping equipment against scale formation.
The Choice of Strategy Development of Offshore Oil-Gas Field
Authors: Shandrygin A. N. , Dubrovsky D. A.
Published: October 2015

Offshore oil-gas and oil-gas-condensate fields with several vertically stacked reservoirs requires a special approach for a choice of strategy their development. It is explained by necessity to solve a multivariate problem of determine of sequence of oil and gas reservoirs development, as well as the construction of facilities for oil and gas gathering and transportation of production from a field.

In this paper we describe the principles and workflow of the definition a strategy for development of offshore oil-gas and oil-gas-condensate fields on the initial stage of their exploitation with a limited amount of geological information.

The proposed technology for the choice of field development strategy includes four phases: definition of types of production systems for oil and gas recovery under the terms of their applicability to the field condition; selection of production systems for oil and gas reservoirs exploitation on the basis of ensuring a maximal economic effect; estimation of a priority in oil and gas production and recommendations for time input into the development of oil and gas reservoirs in line with the already defined sequence of their development.

Implementation of proposed technology is demonstrated on the example of the choice strategy of development of hypothetical offshore oil-gas field.
Conceptual Design of Offshore Facilities: Objectives, Instruments and Deliverables
Authors: Gubaev A. , Gusev S. , Fedorov K.
Published: October 2015

Development of remote Arctic regions requires elaboration of perspective plans and assessment of their investment attractiveness. Therefore, rough estimations of oil and gas field development plan are performed in advance of detail design. The term "conceptual design" is used in practice and means principal scheme of field development and appropriate facilities. Conceptual design is applied as an instrument of investment attractiveness assessment and justification of field investigation.

Targets and objectives of conceptual design are considered in the paper. The appropriate tools are discussed for analyses in consensus with initial data uncertainty. The article considers different examples of conceptual design application for offshore fields on various stages of exploration and investments assessment.

With the aid of case study of Russian Arctic offshore field the main steps of conceptual design are presented including analyses of initial data, application of simplified instruments of forecast and predictions, coordination of geological information with drilling schedules, development planning, facilities and structures selection, cost estimates and sensitivity analyses.
Russian O&G Companies Face Unique Challenges in New Exploration Locations – Lukoil Offshore Exploration Deepwater Romania Black Sea
Authors: Mian Danial , Roberts Jason , Williger Mike , O'Keeffe Philip
Published: October 2015

Lukoil Overseas has been partnering in deep water exploration campaigns since 2010. First operated deep water well was drilled in mid-2013. This well was drilled offshore Sierra Leone. Four other Lukoil operated wells were drilled successfully in Ghana and Ivory Coast after that. Lukoil utilized Ocean Rig's Eirik Raude and Transocean's GSF Jack Ryan for this multi-well campaign in West Africa. This project was managed by experienced Lukoil Overseas Offshore team based out of Houston.

At the beginning of 2014, Lukoil Overseas executive team made a decision to drill three wells offshore Romania. These wells were planned in two offshore blocks, Rapsodia and Trident. Transocean's GSF Development Driller II was contracted in early part of 2014 for this multi-well campaign. Mobilization from US GOM to Romania Black Sea in a short duration was extremely challenging. The rig needed to pass under two suspension bridges in Turkey's Bosporus Strait. It would be necessary to remove top of the dual-activity-derrick to pass the rig under the two suspension bridges. Major engineering design work and manufacturing of equipment was required. Derrick re-installation and commissioning of all the drilling equipment was planned in Constanta, Romania. Winterization of the rig was also needed to successfully operate in the harsh weather conditions of Romania. Derrick removal and rig winterization were planned at the same time to save critical path time. The whole project took over 300,000 man-hours.

On June 10th 2014 the rig arrived in Palermo to start derrick removal and winterization. On September 6th 2014 the rig arrived in Bosporus Strait to go under the bridges. Rig sailed to Constanta where the final re-installation of the derrick took place. Rig mobilized to location on October 31st 2014. Well was successfully spud on November 4th 2014. This complex project showed the experience and flexibility of both Lukoil and Transocean teams. This paper discusses the unique technologies Russian O&G Operators use to seek new exploration opportunities in harsh environments.
Technology for the Thermal Treatment of the Productive Formations of the Boca de Jaruco Field: Challenges, Opportunities, Prospects
Authors: Afanasiev I.S. , Yudin E.V. , Azimov T.A. , Kopylova E.V. , Lubnin A.A. , Grishin P.A. , Osipov A.V. , Galimova A.F.
Published: October 2015

The Pilot works (PW) with the purpose of selecting an optimal enhanced oil recovery technology began at the part of the Boca de Jaruco field in 2009. The field is being developed from the 1970-s, it has several productive intervals. Significant hydrocarbon reserves are attributed to the E1 formation. The development of this formation is challenged by the oil-wet matrix with the presence of the high permeability fractures, high viscosity of oil containing a significant amount of resins and asphaltenes, low current formation pressure. Production at many sites of the field has been suspended due to low oil flow rates, at this, large quantities of residual reserves are attributed to these sites. The performance of pilot works has been arranged for the purpose of selecting an optimal reextraction technology for these reserves. Up to date 3 wells have been drilled in the E1 formation of the PW area. This work presents the results of the performed works for the analysis of geologic features and PW area development plan.
Optimal well pattern of multifractured horizontal wells arranged in rectangular arrays
Authors: Khasanov M. M. , Ushmaev O. S. , Roshchektaev A. P. , Fuks O. M , Andrianova A. M.
Published: October 2015

This paper presents the study of factors influencing the selection of optimal well pattern of the horizontal wells with multiple hydraulic fractures. The proposed analytical technical and economic model of oil filed development allowed to obtain in an explicit form the expression for the net present value (NPV) of the development project. In this context the net present value depends on the rock properties, parameters of the well pattern and different economical factors, also there was considered the dependence of the sweep efficiency of the horizontal well on the drainage area per one well. The semi-analytical method to estimate this dependence is described which is based on the statistical data of the sand body sizes for different depositional environments. Obtained model allowed to determine the sweep efficiency of the horizontal well and the optimal well spacing which ensures the maximal economic effect of the oil field development. There was derived the set of dimensionless technical and economic complexes, that characterize the specific well pattern. Then in terms of these dimensionless parameters were calculated the measuring grids which allow to determine the optimal well spacing and the maximal net present value of the field development project. The article contains the example of the application of the proposed model to the estimation of the optimal well pattern.
Optimization of Orientation of Horizontal Wells and Direction of Fractures at Multistage Hydraulic Fracturing for Low-Permeability Reservoir: Tradeoff Between Initial Oil Production and Oil Recovery
Authors: Khisamov Rais , Akhmetgareev Vadim
Published: October 2015

The technology of multistage fracturing of horizontal wells for the development of low-permeability reservoirs has gained wide acceptance. The performance of multistage fracturing treatments may vary significantly: one treatment may yield large initial oil production rates but rapid increase of water cut and low ultimate oil recovery, while the other treatment may result in low oil production rates but moderate water cut increase and higher oil recovery.

The purpose of this study is to establish the technologies aimed at achieving the utmost production performance of low-permeability reservoirs; namely, maximum initial oil production rates and oil recoveries.

This paper considers three patented technologies which have been designed based on the results of reservoir simulation modeling and actual multistage fracturing performance data in real wells. These technologies have comprised the following research results: the most efficient wellbore orientation and well spacing, optimal angles (30° to 60°) between maximum in-situ stress vector and horizontal wellbore direction as well as between multiple hydraulic fractures, displacement front and natural fractures; appropriate number of fracturing stages N (N=1+L/100, where L is horizontal length) and induced fracture spacing (10 to 100 m), well operation conditions depending on reservoir pressure reduction in the course of reservoir development (up to 3% a year) etc.

Numerical reservoir simulation studies have shown incremental oil recoveries of 2–5% as compared to the existing technologies of multistage fracturing in horizontal wells.

Actual field data from Well 2917G penetrating the Domanic deposits of the Bavlinskoye field suggest sufficiently high oil production rates and low water cut when hydraulic fractures propagate at 45- degree angle with respect to horizontal wellbore.

In recent years, boosting production performance of low-permeability (up to 2 mD) oil reservoirs has become one of top-priority tasks in Russia owing to mineral extraction tax incentives. The proposed technologies enable enhanced oil production from such low-permeability oil-saturated reservoirs and increased production rates through improvement of sweep efficiency.
Enzymatic Generation of Oil-Displacing Systems under Conditions of Low-Temperature Viscosity-Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Altunina L.K. , Svarovskaya L.I. , Guseva Yu.Z.
Published: October 2015

The enzymatic hydrolysis of carbamide has been investigated in the composition of an oil-displacing system (OD system) at low temperatures using urease from natural sources of vegetable origin. The enzymatic hydrolysis of the carbamide proceeds with evolution of CO2, decreasing the viscosity of oil, and ammonia, forming an alkaline buffer solution; it improves the washing properties of the OD system. Thus, an efficient oil-displacing system is generated in situ. It can increase an oil-displacement factor for a low-temperature reservoir. The effect of hydrolysis products on the rheological characteristics of high-viscosity oil in Usinsk oilfield has been studied.
Forage Yield and Nutritive Value of Turf Bermudagrasses Managed to Simulate a Horse Pasture Management Scheme in the U.S. Upper Transition Zone
Authors: Aiken Glen E. , Williams David W.
Published: October 2015

Turf‐type bermudagrasses [Cynodon dactylon (Pers.) L.] with improved cold tolerance could have potential use in horse pastures of the U.S. Upper South for minimizing the damage to grass stands due to heavy trampling in these pastures; however, the dry matter (DM) yield potential and nutritive values of these bermudagrasses are not known. A small‐plot experiment was conducted for three growing seasons with monocultures of two turf‐type bermudagrasses (‘Yukon’ and ‘Riviera’), one forage‐type (‘Wrangler’), and four mixtures of the three (Wrangler × Yukon, Wrangler × Riviera, Yukon × Rivera, and Wrangler × Yukon × Riviera) to evaluate and compare DM yield, crude protein (CP), in vitro true digestibility (IVTD), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Although DM yield, averaged across seasons, for Wrangler was 31 and 40% greater than for Yukon and Riviera, yields were similar between Wrangler and Wrangler × Yukon mixture, and the three mixtures provided greater DM yields than either turf type alone. Crude protein, averaged across seasons, was similar between the turf types, and both had greater CP than Wrangler and the mixtures. Across treatments, IVTD, NDF, and ADF were similar among bermudagrass cultivars. Results of the experiment indicated that Yukon and Riviera bermudagrasses have acceptable nutritive value for horse pastures, but the Wrangler × Yukon mixture could serve as an option for heavier stocked pastures.
Apiaceae seeds as functional food
Authors: Acimovic Milica , Kostadinovic Ljiljana , Popovic Sanja , Dojcinovic Nevena
Published: October 2015

The aim of this review was to point to a great importance of plants from
Apiaceae family as a functional food. Caraway (Carum carvi L.), anise
(Pimpinella anisum L.), coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), dill (Anethum
graveolens L.), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) and cumin (Cuminum cyminum
L.) are plants from the above-mentioned family whose seeds are widely used
in folk medicine, pharmaceutical industry, as spices, flavoring agents and
as dietary supplements. These plants are rich in essential oil, which is a
mixture of volatile compounds that give it a characteristic aroma. Their
antioxidant and antimicrobial activities have been proven and because of
these activities they have great potential to be used as natural food
conservatives. These plants also have hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic
activities as well as anticancer properties. They are used as food
supplements in everyday nutrition and as natural health products for the
prevention and treatment of many disorders such as inflammations,
hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and others. Apart from this, these plants have
real application in foods such as pastries, meat and dairy products, pickles
and salads as well as spice blends like curry powder, garam masala and
others.
Phenological characteristics, yield and fruit quality of apricot cultivars introduced from eastern Europe
Authors: Milatovic Dragan , Djurovic Dejan , Zec Gordan
Published: October 2015

The evaluation of 13 apricot cultivars originating from Eastern Europe, that
is, from the former Soviet Union, was carried out in the region of Belgrade
over the six-year period (2009-2014). The control cultivar for comparison
was "Hungarian Best". Compared to the control, tested cultivars flowered in
the span range from five days earlier ("Velikyi") to two days later
("Chudovyi" and "Polyus Juzhnyi"), while their harvest time ranged from 21
days earlier ("Zorkyi") to 14 days later ("Chudovyi"). A significantly
higher yield per tree was obtained in four cultivars: "Agat", "Strepet",
"Vognik" and "Forum". Fruit weight was significantly higher only in the
cultivar "Strepet", while lower fruit weight was found in five cultivars.
The highest score for fruit appearance was recorded in the cultivar
"Strepet", while according to taste, the cultivar "Forum" was singled out.
Based on the results obtained, for commercial growing in the region of
Belgrade, the cultivar "Strepet" can be recommended mostly for fresh fruit
consumption and the cultivar "Forum" mainly for fruit processing. [TR31063
koji finansira Ministarstvo prosvete, nauke i tehnoloskog razvoja Republike
Srbije i EU FP7 projekat AREA, No. 316004.
Effects of low levels of mannanoligosaccharides in feed on growth and intestinal salmonella reduction in juvenile rainbow trout (Ocorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Pavlicevic Jerko , Bogut Ivan , Glamuzina Branko , Savic Nebojsa
Published: October 2015

Low levels of added mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) in the feed for juvenile
rainbow trout significantly promote growth rate, food conversion and overall
culture results. Three levels of added MOS: 0.05%, 0.10% and 0.15% were
incorporated in commercial pelleted feed and fed three and later two times
per day. The experiment started with juveniles of 48?2.1 grams and lasted 90
days. The best growth result was obtained with the smallest (0.05%) MOS
level, if compared to the control group and 0.1% and 0.15% MOS supplemented
feed. The growth was improvedby11.5% with 0.05% MOS. The best feed conversion
ratio (FCR) of 1.29 was found with 0.05% MOS supplement compared to 1.54 in
the control group. FCR in 0.1% and 0.15% MOS treatments was 1.46, also
significantly better than in the control group. The experiment shows that
0.05% MOS in trout feed is not fully successful in total elimination of
salmonella colonies from fish intestine. But this is achieved with 0.1% MOS
after only 30 days of experiment. The results of experiment point that
smaller levels of MOS, if compared to previous research, are beneficial for
rainbow trout juvenile culture.
EphA4 Receptor Forward Signaling Inhibits Glucagon Secretion From α-Cells
Authors: Hutchens Troy , Piston David W.
Published: October 2015

The loss of inhibition of glucagon secretion exacerbates hyperglycemia in type 1 and 2 diabetes. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate glucagon secretion in unaffected and diabetic states remain relatively unexplained. We present evidence supporting a new model of juxtacrine-mediated regulation of glucagon secretion where neighboring islet cells negatively regulate glucagon secretion through tonic stimulation of α-cell EphA receptors. Primarily through EphA4 receptors, this stimulation correlates with maintenance of a dense F-actin network. In islets, additional stimulation and inhibition of endogenous EphA forward signaling result in inhibition and enhancement, respectively, of glucagon secretion, accompanied by an increase and decrease, respectively, in α-cell F-actin density. Sorted α-cells lack endogenous stimulation of EphA forward signaling from neighboring cells, resulting in enhanced basal glucagon secretion as compared with islets and the elimination of glucose inhibition of glucagon secretion. Restoration of EphA forward signaling in sorted α-cells recapitulates both normal basal glucagon secretion and glucose inhibition of glucagon secretion. Additionally, α-cell–specific EphA4−/− mice exhibit abnormal glucagon dynamics, and EphA4−/− α-cells contain less dense F-actin networks than EphA4+/+ α-cells. This juxtacrine-mediated model provides insight into the functional and dysfunctional regulation of glucagon secretion and opens up new therapeutic strategies for the clinical management of diabetes.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Weight and Behavioral Outcomes Among American Indian and Alaska Native Participants of a Translational Lifestyle Intervention Project
Authors: Jiang Luohua , Huang Haixiao , Johnson Ann , Dill Edward J. , Beals Janette , Manson Spero M. , Roubideaux Yvette ,   the Special Diabetes Program for Indians Diabetes Prevention Demonstration Project
Published: October 2015

OBJECTIVE

To investigate possible socioeconomic disparities in weight and behavioral outcomes among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) participants in a translational diabetes prevention project.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed data from the Special Diabetes Program for Indians Diabetes Prevention (SDPI-DP) Program, an evidence-based lifestyle intervention to prevent diabetes in 36 AI/AN grantee sites. A total of 2,553 participants started the 16-session Lifestyle Balance Curriculum between 1 January 2006 and 31 July 2008. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate the relationships of participant and staff socioeconomic characteristics with weight and behavioral outcomes at the end of the curriculum.

RESULTS

A strong, graded association existed between lower household income and less BMI reduction, which remained significant after adjusting for other socioeconomic characteristics. Compared with others, participants with annual income <$15,000 also had less improvement in physical activity and unhealthy food consumption in bivariate models, but the relationships were only marginally significant in multivariate regressions. Furthermore, grantee sites with fewer professionally prepared staff were less successful at improving participant BMI and healthy food consumption than the other sites. The strong association between income and BMI reduction was reduced by 20–30% in the models with changes in diet variables but was unrelated to changes in physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant socioeconomic disparities exist in weight outcomes of lifestyle intervention at both participant and site staff levels. Helping low-income participants choose more affordable healthy foods and increasing the proportion of professionally trained staff might be practical ways to maximize the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions implemented in “real-world” settings.
Analysis of Driver Response and Traffic Evolution under Variable Speed Limit Control
Authors: Han Youngjun , Chen Danjue , Ahn Soyoung , Hegyi Andreas
Published: October 2015

Field test results of a variable speed limit (VSL) control algorithm, a speed-controlling algorithm using shock wave theory (SPECIALIST), were analyzed to elucidate driver response and traffic flow evolution under VSL control. Successful VSL control was characterized by nearly constant, or decreasing, demand over time. In contrast, failed VSL control was attributed to ( a) significant increase in demand (during control) and ( b) significant net inflow from ramps. The demand increase was found to be the leading cause of the failed control, underscoring that the efficacy of the VSL control greatly relies on its ability to incorporate demand patterns during control. On the basis of these findings, some potential improvements are offered, including a parameter design strategy that incorporates demand patterns.
Real-Time Travel Time Prediction Framework for Departure Time and Route Advice
Authors: Calvert Simeon C. , Snelder Maaike , Bakri Taoufik , Heijligers Bjorn , Knoop Victor L.
Published: October 2015

Heavily used urban networks remain a challenge for travel time prediction because traffic flow is rarely homogeneous and is also subject to a wide variety of disturbances. Various models, some of which use traffic flow theory and some of which are data driven, have been developed to predict traffic flow and travel times. Many of these perform well under set conditions. However, few perform well under all or even most urban traffic conditions. As part of the Amsterdam Practical Trial, a comprehensive field operation test for traffic management, a real-time travel time prediction framework, was developed to make use of an ensemble of traffic modeling techniques to predict travel times with great accuracy for arterial roads as well as urban roads. The various models in the framework include both traffic theoretical models and data-driven approaches, making use of some of the largest real-time traffic data sets currently available to limit errors to less than 20% for any time of day or week. The impending implementation of the framework sets it at the forefront of practical real-time implementation of urban travel time prediction.
Modeling Pedestrian Crowd Exit Choice through Combining Sources of Stated Preference Data
Authors: Haghani Milad , Sarvi Majid , Ejtemai Omid , Burd Martin , Sobhani Amir
Published: October 2015

One crucial aspect of pedestrian behavior when a facility is being evacuated is exit selection. This phenomenon, however, is difficult to capture. Recording revealed choices as the exact situations or moments in which individuals make or change their subconscious exit decisions when evacuating a place is highly ambiguous. The approach in which stated choice data are collected offers an appealing solution to tackle the problem. For the underlying factors that influence people's exit decisions to be examined, two types of stated preference (SP) data were collected and pooled: traditional stated preference data and stated preference–off–revealed preference (RP) data. The latter is from the state-of-the-art class of stated choice methods that design experiments with reference to an alternative in an individual's actual choice set. The nested logit trick model and a customized version of the generalized mixed multinomial logit model were applied to estimate the difference in variance scale of the two sectors of data and to quantify the relative contribution of the factors of distance, density, visibility, and herding behavior to exit decisions. Results showed that the SP-off-RP method, compared with the classical SP method, led to lower variance for random noise by a small margin. Compared with the nested logit trick method, the generalized mixed multinomial logit approach allowed researchers to consider more behavioral dimensions of the problem as well as accommodate the difference in scale of variance, including heterogeneity in utility weights and utility scale of individuals, correlation between alternatives, correlation of unobserved utility factors over time, and correlation between utility coefficients.
Left-Lane Changes in Laterally Unbalanced Traffic
Authors: Gan Qi-Jian , Jin Wen-Long
Published: October 2015

Lane changes caused by weaving traffic flows at freeway merging, diverging, and weaving sections can lead to a drop in capacity and can significantly disrupt the entire traffic facility. The lane-changing pattern of on-ramp vehicles has been studied by using vehicle trajectory data when traffic is laterally balanced. However, in reality, detailed vehicle trajectory data are hard to obtain, and traffic at freeway weaving sections can be laterally unbalanced. This study offers a simple but practical approach that uses data from lane-based loop detectors for estimating the number of left-lane changes when traffic is steady but laterally unbalanced. Stationary states with nearly constant flow rates and speeds were obtained from the loop detector data at a freeway weaving section on SR-91 in Buena Park, California. Under near-stationary traffic conditions inside the weaving section, ( a) traffic flow conservation was found generally to hold, and ( b) traffic was laterally unbalanced with dissimilar additions of vehicles in the lanes. The number of left-lane changes was estimated by using the lane flow-rate differences between the upstream and the middle main-line detectors at the weaving section. Results showed that ( a) the number of left-lane changes within two adjacent lanes linearly increases from the leftmost lane to the shoulder lane and ( b) the total number of left-lane changes is not sensitive to main-line traffic conditions but increases linearly with the on-ramp flow rate. This study further corroborates the validity of the macroscopic lane-changing model for the lateral distribution of left-lane changes in laterally unbalanced traffic, especially in congested traffic.
Recurrent and Transient Spinal Pain Among Commercial Helicopter Pilots
Authors: Andersen Knut , Baardsen Roald , Dalen Ingvild , Larsen Jan Petter
Published: October 2015

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to provide information on the occurrence of spinal pain, i.e., low back and neck pain, among commercial helicopter pilots, along with possible associations between pain and anthropometric and demographic factors and flying exposure.METHODS:
Data were collected through a subjective and retrospective survey among all the 313 (294 men, 19 women) full-time pilots employed by two helicopter companies. A questionnaire was used to assess the extent of spinal complaints in a transient and recurrent pain pattern along with information
on physical activities, occupational flying experience, and airframes.RESULTS: The survey had 207 responders (194 men, 13 women). The pilots had extensive flying experience. Spinal pain was reported by 67%. Flying-related transient pain was reported among 50%, whereas recurrent
spinal pain, not necessarily associated with flying, was reported by 52%. Women experienced more pain, but sample size prevented further conclusions. Male pilots reporting any spinal pain flew significantly more hours last year (median 500 h, IQR 400–650) versus men with no pain (median
445 h, IQR 300–550). Male pilots with transient or recurrent spinal pain did not differ from nonaffected male colleagues in the measured parameters.CONCLUSION: Spinal pain is a frequent problem among male and female commercial helicopter pilots. For men, no significant associations
were revealed for transient or recurrent spinal pain with age, flying experience in years, total hours, annual flying time, type of aircraft, or anthropometric factors except for any spinal pain related to hours flown in the last year.Andersen K, Baardsen R, Dalen I, Larsen JP. Recurrent
and transient spinal pain among commercial helicopter pilots. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(11):962–969.
Solar Eye Protection Practices of Civilian Aircrew
Authors: Chorley Adrian C. , Evans Bruce J. W. , Benwell Martin J.
Published: October 2015

INTRODUCTION: There is good evidence that long term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation increases the risk of cataracts. The ‘blue light hazard’ is considered a risk factor for retinal changes similar to those seen in macular degeneration. Previous studies ascertaining
the prevalence of radiation related ocular disease in pilot cohorts have not considered use of solar eye protection. The aim of this study was to explore pilot use of sunglasses and other solar eye protection habits and to gain insight into the difficulties encountered managing sunlight on
the flight deck. Additionally, the prevalence of radiation related ocular pathology in the study group was calculated.METHODS: A web based questionnaire was developed and administered to a large population of current UK professional pilots.RESULTS: There were 2917 respondents
who completed the questionnaire, demonstrating a wide range of sunglass use during flight. A number of barriers to sunglass use were identified, the most prevalent being the requirement for corrective lenses to be used. Pilots most commonly increase sunglass use due to ocular health concerns.
A high level of dissatisfaction with standard aircraft sun protection systems was reported. Long haul airline pilots were the highest users of nonstandard sunlight blocking strategies. No correlation between reported pathology and flying experience was found.DISCUSSION: The use
of sunglasses during flight is complex; however, a number of practical recommendations can be made to increase the success for those pilots who wish to use sunglasses more. Aircraft manufacturers should consider how greater control of cockpit sunlight levels can be achieved.Chorley AC,
Evans BJW, Benwell MJ. Solar eye protection practices of civilian aircrew. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(11):953–961.