bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting Challenges Associated with Tropical Cyclones within Subtropical Gyres
Authors: Crandall Brian , Molinari John , Vollaro David
Published: October 2013

This case study examines the complex history of a tropical storm that formed southeast of a large subtropical gyre. In real time the tropical storm was incorrectly identified as being two separate storms, and at one time was mislocated by 465 km. The unique forecast problems associated with tropical cyclones within a subtropical gyre are described. The tropical storm propagated around the gyre and encountered a midlevel temperature gradient to the north. The interaction of the storm with this gradient produced a strong midtropospheric temperature dipole. Temperature advection within this feature produced a change in structure to a subtropical storm corotating with an upper low. The subtropical storm turned equatorward and nearly came to a halt as the upper low became aligned with the storm. As convection increased over warm water, the upper low shifted away from the center and the storm reversed direction and moved poleward. These sudden track changes have frequently been observed in the northwest Pacific, but the role of midtropospheric temperature gradients has not previously been addressed. Clear air at the gyre center coincided with a region of cold advection. A fishhook structure in the gyre cloudiness developed as a result of warm advection east and north of the gyre. The subtropical structure of the storm evolved within the fishhook. It is recommended that the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) provide formal warnings on subtropical storms, because their baroclinic nature can produce dramatic track changes associated with the presence of upper lows near the center.
L’expérience du consommateur dans le commerce de détail. Une revue de littérature
Authors: Antéblian Blandine , Filser Marc , Roederer Claire
Published: October 2013

Résumé

Le thème de l’expérience s’est constitué en objet de recherche en marketing, grâce aux efforts investis par de nombreux distributeurs dans la création d’offres expérientielles. La littérature académique s’est d’abord concentrée sur les antécédents, la recherche et les conséquences de l’expérience, avant de prendre en compte le contenu même de l’expérience. Les stratégies des détaillants peuvent être analysées en mobilisant des grilles de lecture fondées sur la nature de la participation du consommateur à la production de l’expérience, ou sur le caractère extraordinaire ou ordinaire de l’expérience proposée. Le modèle synthétique proposé permet de rendre compte de l’expérience du consommateur dans la sphère réelle comme dans la sphère virtuelle du commerce de détail.
L’expérience d’achat outre-frontière sur Internet : proposition d’un modèle conceptuel
Authors: Boeuf Benjamin , Sénécal Sylvain
Published: October 2013

Résumé

L’achat outre-frontière a très peu été étudié lorsque qu’il s’effectue sur Internet. Cet article propose un modèle conceptuel des déterminants de l’expérience d’achat outre-frontière sur Internet. Six déterminants et un modérateur de l’intention d’achat sont proposés. Les implications de ce modèle et des perspectives de recherche sont présentées.
Le magasinage dans un centre commercial: une typologie de quatre parcours
Authors: Trévinal Aurélia Michaud
Published: October 2013

Résumé

Tous les clients empruntent-ils les mêmes itinéraires ? Les parcours de magasinage et les comportements issus de l’interaction avec l’espace commercial sont peu étudiés. A partir d’une observation de 209 parcours dans un centre commercial, cette recherche identifie quatre types de parcours : le « passage », le « pragmatique », la « pérégrination » et « l’appropriation ». La typologie est obtenue par une analyse sémiotique, confirmée par une analyse statistique (nuées dynamiques puis analyse discriminante). Les parcours traduisent les différentes appropriations de l’espace commercial. Ils expriment en actes les expériences co-créées par les magasineurs et leur environnement.
Computational approaches for discovery of common immunomodulators in fungal infections: towards broad-spectrum immunotherapeutic interventions
Authors: Kidane Yared H , Lawrence Christopher , Murali T M
Published: October 2013

Background

Fungi are the second most abundant type of human pathogens. Invasive fungal pathogens are leading causes of life-threatening infections in clinical settings. Toxicity to the host and drug-resistance are two major deleterious issues associated with existing antifungal agents. Increasing a host’s tolerance and/or immunity to fungal pathogens has potential to alleviate these problems. A host’s tolerance may be improved by modulating the immune system such that it responds more rapidly and robustly in all facets, ranging from the recognition of pathogens to their clearance from the host. An understanding of biological processes and genes that are perturbed during attempted fungal exposure, colonization, and/or invasion will help guide the identification of endogenous immunomodulators and/or small molecules that activate host-immune responses such as specialized adjuvants.

Results

In this study, we present computational techniques and approaches using publicly available transcriptional data sets, to predict immunomodulators that may act against multiple fungal pathogens. Our study analyzed data sets derived from host cells exposed to five fungal pathogens, namely,Alternaria alternata,Aspergillus fumigatus,Candida albicans,Pneumocystis jirovecii, andStachybotrys chartarum. We observed statistically significant associations between host responses toA. fumigatusandC. albicans. Our analysis identified biological processes that were consistently perturbed by these two pathogens. These processes contained both immune response-inducing genes such as MALT1, SERPINE1, ICAM1, and IL8, and immune response-repressing genes such as DUSP8, DUSP6, and SPRED2. We hypothesize that these genes belong to a pool of common immunomodulators that can potentially be activated or suppressed (agonized or antagonized) in order to render the host more tolerant to infections caused byA. fumigatusandC. albicans.

Conclusions

Our computational approaches and methodologies described here can now be applied to newly generated or expanded data sets for further elucidation of additional drug targets. Moreover, identified immunomodulators may be used to generate experimentally testable hypotheses that could help in the discovery of broad-spectrum immunotherapeutic interventions. All of our results are available at the following supplementary website:http://bioinformatics.cs.vt.edu/~murali/supplements/2013-kidane-bmc
Chemical composition and antioxidant capacities of phytococktail extracts from trans-Himalayan cold desert
Authors: Dhar Priyanka , Bajpai Prabodh Kumar , Tayade Amol Bapurao , Chaurasia Om Prakash , Srivastava Ravi Bihari , Singh Shashi Bala
Published: October 2013

Background

Himalayan plants are widely used in traditional system of medicine both as prophylactics and therapeutics for high altitude maladies. Our aim was to evaluate the antioxidant capacities and bioactive compounds of methanol and n-hexane extracts of the phytococktail comprising of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), apricot (Prunus armeniaca) and roseroot (Rhodiola imbricata) from trans-Himalaya.

Methods

The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) and nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging capacities and lipid peroxidation inhibition (LPI) property of the extracts were determined. Total antioxidant power was determined by ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Total polyphenol, flavonoid, flavonol, proanthocyanidin and carotenoid were also estimated for both extracts. We have identified and quantified the phyto-chemotypes present in the methanol and n-hexane extracts by hyphenated gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) technique.

Results

Antioxidant capacity assays using DPPH, ABTS, NO, LPI and FRAP exhibited analogous results where the phytococktail showed high antioxidant action. The phytococktail was also found to possess high quantity of total polyphenol, flavonoid, flavonol and carotenoid. A significant and linear correlation was found between the antioxidant capacities and bioactive principles. A total of 32 phyto-chemotypes were identified from these extracts by GC/MS chemometric fingerprinting. Major phyto-chemotypes identified by GC/MS were glycosides, phenylpropanoids and derivatives, terpenoids, alkaloids, phytosterols, fatty acids and esters, alkaloids and derivatives, organic acid esters and aromatic ethers with positive biological and pharmacological actions.

Conclusion

The phytococktail extracts were found to contain considerable amount of diverse bioactive compounds with high antioxidant capacities. The presence of hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidants in the phytococktail could have contributed to the higher antioxidant values. Hence, the phytococktail could be used as natural source of antioxidants to ameliorate disorders associated with oxidative stress.
Interruption of Onchocerca volvulus transmission in Northern Venezuela
Authors: Convit Jacinto , Schuler Harland , Borges Rafael , Olivero Vimerca , Domínguez-Vázquez Alfredo , Frontado Hortencia , Grillet María E
Published: October 2013

Background

Onchocerciasis is caused by Onchocerca volvulus and transmitted by Simulium species (black flies). In the Americas, the infection has been previously described in 13 discrete regional foci distributed among six countries (Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico and Venezuela) where more than 370,000 people are currently considered at risk. Since 2001, disease control in Venezuela has relied on the mass drug administration to the at-risk communities. This report provides empirical evidence of interruption of Onchocerca volvulus transmission by Simulium metallicum in 510 endemic communities from two Northern foci of Venezuela, after 10–12 years of 6-monthly Mectizan® (ivermectin) treatment to all the eligible residents.

Methods

In-depth entomologic and epidemiologic surveys were serially conducted from 2001–2012 in selected (sentinel and extra-sentinel) communities from the North-central (NC) and North-east (NE) onchocerciasis foci of Venezuela in order to monitor the impact of ivermectin treatment.

Results

From 2007–2009, entomological indicators in both foci confirmed that 0 out of 112,637 S. metallicum females examined by PCR contained L3 infection in insect heads. The upper bound of the 95% confidence intervals of the infective rate of the vector reached values below 1% by 2009 (NC) and 2012 (NE). Additionally, after 14 (NC) and 22 (NE) rounds of treatment, the seasonal transmission potential (±UL CIs) of S. metallicum was under the critical threshold of 20 L3 per person per season. Serological analysis in school children < 15 years-old demonstrated that 0 out of 6,590 individuals were harboring antibodies to Ov-16. Finally, epidemiological surveys made during 2010 (NC) and 2012 (NE) showed no evidence of microfilariae in the skin and eyes of the population.

Conclusions

These results meet the WHO criteria for absence of parasite transmission and disease morbidity in these endemic areas which represent 91% of the population previously at-risk in the country. Consequently, the two Northern foci are currently under post-treatment onchocerciasis surveillance status in Venezuela.
Muscle ultrasound for early assessment of critical illness neuromyopathy in severe sepsis
Authors: Grimm Alexander , Teschner Ulrike , Porzelius Christine , Ludewig Katrin , Zielske Jörg , Witte Otto W , Brunkhorst Frank M , Axer Hubertus
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Muscle ultrasound is emerging as a promising tool in the diagnosis of neuromuscular diseases. The current observational study evaluates the usefulness of muscle ultrasound in patients with severe sepsis for assessment of critical illness polyneuropathy and myopathy (CINM) in the intensive care unit.

Methods

28 patients with either septic shock or severe sepsis underwent clinical neurological examinations, muscle ultrasound, and nerve conduction studies on days 4 and 14 after onset of sepsis. 26 healthy controls of comparable age underwent clinical neurological evaluation and muscle ultrasound only.

Results

26 of the 28 patients exhibited classic electrophysiological characteristics of CINM, and all showed typical clinical signs. Ultrasonic echogenicity of muscles was graded semiquantitatively and fasciculations were evaluated in muscles of proximal and distal arms and legs. 75% of patients showed a mean echotexture greater than 1.5, which was the maximal value found in the control group. A significant difference in mean muscle echotexture between patients and controls was found at day 4 and day 14 (both p < 0.001). In addition, from day 4 to day 14, the mean grades of muscle echotexture increased in the patient group, although the values did not reach significance levels (p = 0.085). Controls revealed the lowest number of fasciculations. In the patients group, fasciculations were detected in more muscular regions (lower and upper arm and leg) in comparison to controls (p = 0.08 at day 4 and p = 0.002 at day 14).

Conclusions

Muscle ultrasound represents an easily applicable, non-invasive diagnostic tool which adds to neurophysiological testing information regarding morphological changes of muscles early in the course of sepsis. Muscle ultrasound could be useful for screening purposes prior to subjecting patients to more invasive techniques such as electromyography and/or muscle biopsy.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS-ID:DRKS00000642.
Jan Dejnozka, “The Concept of Relevance and the Logic Diagram Tradition”, Create Space Independent Publishing Platform, 2012
Authors: Almeida Edgar L.B.
Published: October 2013

Jan Dejnozka, The Concept of Relevance and the Logic Diagram Tradition, Create Space Independent Publishing Platform, 2012, 170 pp., ISBN-10 1475071094, ISBN-13 978-1475071092.
On the interaction of semantics and deduction in Transparent Intensional Logic (Is Tichý's logic a logic?)
Authors: Raclavský Jiří
Published: October 2013

It is sometimes objected that Tichý’s logic is not a logic because it underestimates deduction, providing only logical analyses of expressions. I argue that this opinion is wrong. First of all, to detect valid arguments, which are formulated in a language, there needs to be logical analysis to ascertain which semantical entities (Tichý’s so-called constructions) are involved. Entailment is defined as an extralinguistic affair relating those constructions. The validity of an argument, composed of propositional constructions, stems from the properties of the constructions. Such properties are displayed by the derivation rules of Tichý’s system of deduction.
The Use of Open Source Software for Open Architecture System on CNC Milling Machine
Authors: Subagio Dalmasius Ganjar , Atmaja Tinton Dwi
Published: October 2013

Computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine system cannot be separated from the software required to follow the provisions of the Open Architecture capabilities that have portability, extend ability, interoperability, and scalability. When a prescribed period of a CNC milling machine has passed and the manufacturer decided to discontinue it, then the user will have problems for maintaining the performance of the machine. This paper aims to show that the using of open source software (OSS) is the way out to maintain engine performance. With the use of OSS, users no longer depend on the software built by the manufacturer because OSS is open and can be developed independently. In this paper, USBCNC V.3.42 is used as an alternative OSS. The test result shows that the work piece is in match with the desired pattern. The test result shows that the performance of machines using OSS has similar performance with the machine using software from the manufacturer.
Lese- und Literaturpädagogik in der Bibliothek
Authors: Knieling Barbara
Published: October 2013

Eine sich wandelnde Gesellschaft postuliert an bestehende Berufsbilder neue Aufgaben. Bibliotheken stehen vor der Frage, worin ihr künftiges Kerngeschäft liegen wird. Der traditionelle Aufgabenbereich Leseförderung gewinnt an Bedeutung und bedarf spezieller Kompetenzen seitens der Mitarbeiter. Diese vermittelt die interdisziplinäre Weiterbildung „Lese- und Literaturpädagogik“, welche vom Bundesverband Leseförderung konzipiert wurde. Die Basis bildet der gleichnamige Kompetenzrahmen „Lese- und Literaturpädagogik“, der neben Fach- und Methodenkompetenz bewusst auch Personal- und Sozialkompetenzen integriert und die Grundlage des Curriculums darstellt.
Alendronate promotes bone formation by inhibiting protein prenylation in osteoblasts in rat tooth replantation model
Authors: Komatsu Koichiro , Shimada Akemi , Shibata Tatsuya , Wada Satoshi , Ideno Hisashi , Nakashima Kazuhisa , Amizuka Norio , Noda Masaki , Nifuji Akira
Published: October 2013

Bisphosphonates (BPs) are a major class of antiresorptive drug, and their molecular mechanisms of antiresorptive action have been extensively studied. Recent studies have suggested that BPs target bone-forming cells as well as bone-resorbing cells. We previously demonstrated that local application of a nitrogen-containing BP (N-BP), alendronate (ALN), for a short period of time increased bone tissue in a rat tooth replantation model. Here, we investigated cellular mechanisms of bone formation by ALN. Bone histomorphometry confirmed that bone formation was increased by local application of ALN. ALN increased proliferation of bone-forming cells residing on the bone surface, whereas it suppressed the number of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive osteoclastsin vivo. Moreover, ALN treatment induced more alkaline phosphatase-positive and osteocalcin-positive cells on the bone surface than PBS treatment.In vitrostudies revealed that pulse treatment with ALN promoted osteocalcin expression. To track the target cells of N-BPs, we applied fluorescence-labeled ALN (F-ALN)in vivoandin vitro. F-ALN was taken into bone-forming cells bothin vivoandin vitro. This intracellular uptake was inhibited by endocytosis inhibitors. Furthermore, the endocytosis inhibitor dansylcadaverine (DC) suppressed ALN-stimulated osteoblastic differentiationin vitroand it suppressed the increase in alkaline phosphatase-positive bone-forming cells and subsequent bone formationin vivo. DC also blocked the inhibition of Rap1A prenylation by ALN in the osteoblastic cells. These data suggest that local application of ALN promotes bone formation by stimulating proliferation and differentiation of bone-forming cells as well as inhibiting osteoclast function. These effects may occur through endocytic incorporation of ALN and subsequent inhibition of protein prenylation.
Emission spectra study of plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of intrinsic,n+, andp+amorphous silicon thin films
Authors: Lee I-Syuan , Kuo Yue
Published: October 2013

The PECVD intrinsic,n+, andp+a-Si:H thin film deposition processes have been studied by the optical emission spectroscope to monitor the plasma phase chemistry. Process parameters, such as the plasma power, pressure, and gas flow rate, were correlated to SiH*, Hα*, and Hβ* optical intensities. For all films, the deposition rate increases with the increase of the SiH* intensity. For the doped films, the Hα*/SiH* ratio is a critical factor affecting the resistivity. The existence of PH3or B2H6in the feed stream enhances the deposition rate. Changes of the free radicals intensities can be used to explain variation of film characteristics under different deposition conditions.
Below the disappearing marshes of an urban estuary: historic nitrogen trends and soil structure
Authors: Wigand Cathleen , Roman Charles T. , Davey Earl , Stolt Mark , Johnson Roxanne , Hanson Alana , Watson Elizabeth B. , Moran S. Bradley , Cahoon Donald R. , Lynch James C. , Rafferty Patricia
Published: October 2013

Marshes in the urban Jamaica Bay Estuary, New York, USA are disappearing at an average rate of 13 ha/yr, and multiple stressors (e.g., wastewater inputs, dredging activities, groundwater removal, and global warming) may be contributing to marsh losses. Among these stressors, wastewater nutrients are suspected to be an important contributing cause of marsh deterioration. We used census data, radiometric dating, stable nitrogen isotopes, and soil surveys to examine the temporal relationships between human population growth and soil nitrogen; and we evaluated soil structure with computer‐aided tomography, surface elevation and sediment accretion trends, carbon dioxide emissions, and soil shear strength to examine differences among disappearing (Black Bank and Big Egg) and stable marshes (JoCo). Radiometric dating and nitrogen isotope analyses suggested a rapid increase in human wastewater nutrients beginning in the late 1840s, and a tapering off beginning in the 1930s when wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) were first installed. Current WWTPs nutrient loads to Jamaica Bay are approximately 13 995 kg N/d and 2767 kg P/d. At Black Bank, the biomass and abundance of roots and rhizomes and percentage of organic matter on soil were significantly lower, rhizomes larger in diameter, carbon dioxide emission rates and peat particle density significantly greater, and soil strength significantly lower compared to the stable JoCo Marsh, suggesting Black Bank has elevated decomposition rates, more decomposed peat, and highly waterlogged peat. Despite these differences, the rates of accretion and surface elevation change were similar for both marshes, and the rates of elevation change approximated the long term relative rate of sea level rise estimated from tide gauge data at nearby Sandy Hook, New Jersey. We hypothesize that Black Bank marsh kept pace with sea level rise by the accretion of material on the marsh surface, and the maintenance of soil volume through production of larger diameter rhizomes and swelling (dilation) of waterlogged peat. JoCo Marsh kept pace with sea‐level rise through surface accretion and soil organic matter accumulation. Understanding the effects of multiple stressors, including nutrient enrichment, on soil structure, organic matter accumulation, and elevation change will better inform management decisions aimed at maintaining and restoring coastal marshes.
Improving the quantification of terrestrial ecosystem carbon dynamics over the United States using an adjoint method
Authors: Zhu Qing , Zhuang Qianlai
Published: October 2013

We used an adjoint version of the process‐based Terrestrial Ecosystem Model (TEM) to optimize the model parameters in a spatially explicit manner by assimilating satellite‐based estimates of gross primary production (GPP) in the conterminous United States. Traditionally, terrestrial ecosystem model parameterization is conducted at site‐level for various plant functional types (PFTs). The optimal parameters are then extrapolated to regions that have the same plant functional types as parameterized. However, site‐level parameterization might be only valid within a few kilometers in the footprint of the individual site. Extrapolation of the optimal parameters to a region with an assumption that the parameters are the same for all pixels for the same ecosystem type in the region may introduce significant errors in quantification of regional carbon dynamics. This study used Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer GPP to optimize parameters for each pixel using adjoint method in a spatially explicit manner. The spatially explicit parameters were then used to quantify the regional carbon fluxes from 2000 to 2005. The estimated net ecosystem production (NEP) was used to drive a global atmospheric transport model, GEOS‐Chem, to estimate the near surface atmospheric CO2 concentrations, which were then compared with flask measurements. We found that (1) the site‐level TEM parameterization method provided good estimates of carbon fluxes at site levels, but had a large uncertainty in the regional simulations; (2) the spatially explicit parameterization improved the estimates of the spatial distribution and seasonal variation of regional carbon dynamics; and (3) when driven with the NEP estimated with the spatially explicit model, the GEOS‐Chem captured the seasonal trend of near‐surface CO2 concentrations better than that was driven with the estimates based on the site‐level parameterized model. This study suggested that future quantification of regional carbon dynamics should consider the spatial variation of parameters, which could be optimized using spatially explicit carbon flux data.
Field Specific KPI - An Innovative Approach to Drilling Performance Management
Authors: Weekse Alexander , Al-Mumen Adib , Al-Hajji Ali , Muqeem Muhammad , Abouelnaaj Khaled
Published: October 2013

The importance of improving the efficiency of drilling operations in the E&P industry cannot be overemphasized, since it directly impacts the overall cost of constructing oil and gas wells. The key performance indicator (KPI) for measuring drilling efficiency is feet per day (ft/d).

In Saudi Aramco, a high level target KPI is normally generated separately for new development oil wells and gas wells, using a benchmark (BM) method based on actual and projected performance. The drilling teams found it difficult to relate individual well performance to the high level KPI target and were unable to properly strategize to improve performance. A new method, the field specific KPI, was developed to complement the BM method and provide a more user-friendly platform to manage performance.

Notable impacts of the new method include; improved planning, accurate monitoring of performance for prompt corrective action; and enhanced accountability and variance analysis from individual wells to fields, departments and the high level. These were demonstrated to be the prime drivers to improve performance.

This paper presents the process of generating the drilling performance efficiency KPIs using the existing BM method and the new field specific method. The scope, strengths, benefits and weaknesses of both methods are also addressed.
Using Real-Time Operations Interventions in a Drilling and Subsurface Collaborative Environment
Authors: Fayzullin T. , Kowalchuk P. , Goebel T. , Shopeju A.
Published: October 2013

Real-time centres have been valuable in the oil and gas industry since the rapid growth of their use in the late 1990s. Both service and operating companies have embraced the advantages of having field data available at any time during the operation and making such data accessible to many subject matter experts, regardless of their locations. Substantial improvements in service quality and operational efficiency have been achieved, proving the true value provided by these centers. But many of these centres were also built assuming they would become incubators of collaboration between the different teams that participate in both the design and execution of the well construction process. The benefits so widely observed for the execution phase are currently difficult to find reflected in added collaboration between the different stakeholders during well preplanning and design. The question arises if real-time centres can deliver on the promise of integration, or if they are tools to be used only during execution.

This paper presents an implementation showing that there is still room for real-time centres to evolve. After developing a new method of managing and using real-time interventions, the subject centre captured information during the execution phase and made it available for collaborative planning sessions. The information was captured, stored, and consumed in such a way that all participating teams could use it to help make better decisions. This paper presents details on both the implementation of and early results for a center operating in Dubai and overseeing operations in Iraq that evolved into an Integrated Operations Centre (IOC).
Competency Assurance Management System For Drilling
Authors: El-Bishti Abulgasem M. , Al-Marzooqi Abdul Mohsen , Al-Ghaithi Sultan S.
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this paper is to show and increase understanding of the concept for competency assurance in order to encourage associations of drilling professionals (Applicable to any industry) so they can develop their own and to motivate Drilling personnel to participate in this program. The concept of this program (competency assurance system) is used and it's applicable and usefulness for all who's concerned with the main capital asst (people) of all the new Engineers joining Drilling Division.

This paper illustrates the work carried out by the Competency Assurance Management System team within the manpower development division in developing a competence assurance framework for Well Engineering, Drilling Supervisor, Completion & Wireline Engineer, Drilling Chemical Fluids Engineer - applicable across All ADNOC Group and the way forward of implementation, monitoring and continuous following up.

This type of Work (WE - DFW) extracted from job description and job requirements of all OPCO's through their representatives, Skill Pool Experts (SPE'S).

This work established in order to meet the business needs of drilling industry within OPCO's and to be capable of being audited which just done this year - 2013 by OPCO'S SPE'S and continuously measured through an agreed defined system and pre-defined performance criteria.

The final product of this effort is a formal training program supported by endorsed training records and formal accreditation, (Top Management) then implemented through experienced personal using well defined tools as tour, monthly and Bi Annually reviews and finally a quarterly meeting with Presidents/Vice Presidents.

The Competency Assurance Management System will be well defined as process wise and explained through the paper. It will shown how this program guaranteed a competent engineers on site or in office to work with solid experience so they can deliver a high quality drilling wells in order to achieve the company current and future targets.

Hopefully this type of work adds value to the whole community and supports the strategies of development and advancement and makes certain cure to the whole unemployment difficulties.
ADCO New Rigs Start Up Project: Increasing rig fleet and activities by 30%, Challenges and Lessons learned
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Hussain , Hussain Mohamed Qassem , Carvalho Rui , Kuyken Chris
Published: October 2013

Abu Dhabi National Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO) is expanding their operation in terms of increasing the production quota by drilling more wells with working over the existing wells. Therefore, the demanding to increasing rig fleet and activities is one of the important milestones in Drilling Division in ADCO. It is very critical and complex challenging to mobilize and start up with new drilling rigs. This process have an impact of a high cost and risk to any Oil and Gas company's business, so all the mitigations and risks should carefully be observed, taken and planned ahead prior each stage of ADCO New Rigs Start up project.

Three main stages are considered after defining the specifications of the required drilling rigs. They are (1) construction, (2) commissioning and (3) start-up. Different risks and Challenges involved in each stage of the ADCO New Rigs Start up project process such as delays during any stage of the project which have a great impact on delivering the rigs as per the planned frame work therefore, delays in delivering the company business plan.

This paper will express the challenge of having delays causing high impact in company business plan, however, the higher risk is always safety related. In addition of illustrating safe start-up is always considered the priority and focus through all project stages for achieving Zero-Harm target.
Creating a Global Wells Institute inside a Major Operator
Authors: Williamson H. S. , Jones N.
Published: October 2013

This paper describes how a major international oil and gas company is creating a distinctive internal solution for staff capability development - a ‘global wells institute’ - via a three-fold transformation of learning. First, a progression of development ‘roadmaps’, covering technical, management and leadership skills, is designed to provide career-long continuity in professional development. Second, individual progress will be defined by the successful application of skills, with transfer of learning from the classroom to the workplace being formally supported by line managers and a global coaching programme. Third, a systematic performance consulting process will inform a performance improvement cycle, and keep the global wells institute aligned with evolving business needs.

This approach is attractive from the point of view of the learner, contributing to an ‘institute experience’ which is challenging, engaging and rewarding. From a systems perspective, the approach makes the development of people more systematic and controlled.

Similar criteria are being used to select the facilities, technology and instructional practices which will support the global wells institute. On one hand, choices are based on rigorous learning needs and performance analysis. On the other, the end-result inspires those who use the institute - learners and faculty - in the development of themselves and their colleagues. The global wells institute delivers a 21st century capability development solution.
New Vertical Drilling System Brings Real Time Survey and RSS Performance While Reducing Overall Operating Costs
Authors: Neil P. , Herrington D.
Published: October 2013

As the depth and horizontal reach of oil and gas wells is extended further each year, the importance of maintaining a truly vertical top section becomes more and more critical. Today, limited solutions are available to manage this challenge, as with all conventional methods either cost or quality must be compromised. A more financially viable solution must be provided for the drilling industry to continue the pursuit of hydrocarbons in these increasingly complex applications.

Curves or kinks created by correcting for the natural drift of the bit create additional points of contact through the well's vertical section, creating tortuosity and drag. To maintain true verticality and a straight borehole, drillers have only limited solutions. Control drilling provides slow and limited performance, while bent housing mud motors effectively correct the deviation, but result in increased tortuosity. Excellent performance is provided by Rotary Steerable Systems (RSS), but they are cost prohibitive both in terms of daily costs and the risk of Lost in Hole (LIH) charges.

New technology has been developed that provides the economics of bent housing motor drilling with the performance and borehole quality of conventional RSS tools. By simplifying the mechanical and electronic designs required for steering and supplying autonomous function in the field, this new tool fills the gap between these two systems. Additionally, the tool incorporates real time verticality measurements at a fraction of the cost of Measurement While Drilling (MWD) tools, providing an economical solution that delivers a high quality vertical wellbore while reducing the cost per foot of the well.

By providing autonomous operation with RSS performance, this technology has assisted operators in the Middle East region significantly reduce their vertical section cost per well. This paper will detail how this new system is being used to deliver economic and in-ground performance that bridges the gap between motors and RSS tools. Performance data and analysis showing the value and advantages provided by this unique drilling system will be included.
Advanced Milling Technology Sets Record for Number of Composite Mill Outs for ‘Plug-N-Perf’ Completions in the Williston Basin
Authors: Larsen Adam , Garfield Garry
Published: October 2013

The increasing need to improve production as well as limit the time between fracturing operations and well production in the Williston basin is a key driver in forwarding milling technology in the through-tubing environment. To keep up with advancing completion methods, through-tubing technology has been upgraded to enable an increasing number of composite plugs and ball seats to be completely milled out in one trip reducing downhole time which reduces operator costs. An operator in the Williston basin, after having set 79 composite plugs in two separate wellbores and completed fracing operations in the Bakken shale, was prepared to bring wells online. The removal of 79 plugs in two wellbores normally takes a significant amount of time, and involves several trips downhole and pulling the bottomhole assembly (BHA) to change out worn components. Utilizing a milling-specific application for removing composite plugs, 43 composite plugs in the first well were removed in a single run using a workover rig. The same mill that was used with the first well was sent back to the shop and inspected and used on the second well to remove 36 composite plugs from the second wellbore without redress. Milling a large number of composite plugs in two wells in one trip equalls time saved and significantly reduced cost. The paper describes the operation, the downhole components of the BHA, including the application-specific milling technology, and the cost savings to the customer during the record-setting mill out operation.
Solving Hard/Abrasive Sedimentary and Igneous Formation Challenge: New PDC Bit Design Reduces 6-in Section Drilling Time by 47%
Authors: Peytchev Peter , Malik Sumit D. , Varghese Roy , Doodraj Sunil , Srinivasan Sudarsan , Benny Praveen , Raghav Sanjeev , Narayanan Shine
Published: October 2013

The 6"hole section in Raageshwari Field NW India (onshore) is typically between 600–800m long and highly challenging in terms of formation strength and abrasiveness. Lithology in the upper part is composed of sandstone, claystone and weathered basalt with unconfined compressive strength (UCS) between 3–5kpsi. The lower section contains basalt, felsic and sub-felsic igneous formations with UCS range of 15–30kpsi.

Historically, a two bit strategy was employed. First, a PDC bit on a positive displacement motor (PDM) bottom hole assembly was used to drill the soft 6" section until ROP dropped to an unacceptable level. The BHA was then pulled and followed by a diamond impregnated bit on a turbine BHA to drill the very hard volcanics. Typical average on-bottom ROP for the entire section was 4.5m/hr and took approximately 170 hours to reach total depth (TD).

To reduce costs, new technology was proposed to improve bit durability in the hard/abrasive volcanics and drill the entire 6" section in one run at a higher ROP. Recent bit and drilling data from offset wells was analyzed to assist in developing a new, cost effective PDC design to replace the expensive diamond-impregnated bits and drill the 6" hole section in one run. The study resulted in a new six-bladed PDC bit with 13 mm cutters that incorporates superior cutter technology to improve durability and resist physical and thermal degradation. The design includes a row of backup cutters in the shoulder area to increase radial diamond volume for maximum durability.

The new PDC bits have been run on a motor and rotary steerable bottom hole assemblies and drilled the 6" section on three consecutive wells in Raageshwari field totaling 2328meters with an average ROP of 10.7m/hr. This represents approx. 47% decrease in drilling time compared to that previously achieved by Impreg/TCI bit runs. Typically, the new bits are pulled in re-runable condition. This improved performance has saved the operator approximately six-days of rig time and approximately USD 480,000/well.
Enhanced Horizontal Well Drilling in North Kuwait Boosts Drilling Phase and Achieves Wellbore Cleaning Goals
Authors: Al-Enezi Dakhil , Al-Khaldy Ali , Mubarak Sarah , Takate Yogesh , Al-Mutawa Faisal
Published: October 2013

Promotion of horizontal well drilling started with inflow control device (ICD) completion to boost the hydrocarbon production as per the KOC 2030 strategy. Drilling these wells revealed many technical issues leading to stuck pipe due to improper hole cleaning. The rate of penetration (ROP) in the buildup and lateral sections was erratic. Drilling a pilot hole and performing pipe-conveyed logging runs were the main factors contributing to excess rig time. It was observed that drain hole cleaning methods and drilling time optimization needed to be improved. These factors increased rig time by about 40 while drilling many horizontal wells in the North Kuwait (NK) horizontal operation, adding significant costs to the well budget.

While drilling these horizontal wells, well design was optimized and the drilling team applied the optimized design that increased hole-cleaning effectively, improved ROP and reduced the logging time. The 6⅛-in. and 8½-in. motorized rotary steer-able systems (RSS) and bottomhole assembly (BHA) systems ran for the first time in Kuwait, drilling 8½-in. build section from Mutriba to the Upper Burgan top formation and 6⅛-in. section in Mauddud carbonates has dynamically avoided down-hole tool failures, doubled the average ROP, and reduced non-productive time (NPT). The pilot hole section was designed and drilled in two phases. In the first section a gamma ray tool identified the formation tops. The second section (zone of formation interest) was then drilled using an 8½-in. tool with a triple-combo RSS BHA. This approach reduced the extensive wireline or tough logging condition (TLC) runs and increased ROP by slimming down the borehole size. The hole-cleaning method was modified by combining pumpout techniques with heavy-weighted pills (MW+2 ppg).

This technique was used in horizontal wells, resulting in reduced drilling time and well cost.
A Comprehensive Methodology of Calculating Hydraulic Parameters in Real Time and the Monitoring System
Authors: Zhou H. , Fan H. , Ji R. , Yin D. , Zhai Y. , Ye Z.
Published: October 2013

Deepwater, HTHP and narrow pressure-margin well depend on accurate, real-time knowledge of down hole hydraulics in order to their objectives safely and economically. A comprehensive methodology of calculating hydraulic parameters on the basis of logging data was formulated. It can conduct a real-time calculating and monitoring hydraulic parameters using logging data in the process of drilling. First, according to the problem of non-unified data units and the mode of data sharing, transmission during the well logging data transmission, an integrated new well site software module was developed, which combined the functions of data acquisition, transportation and simulation. This module puts the variability of the well logging equipment, complicity of I/O ports, and specialty of transmission protocol outside the real-time computation module which is efficient and simple. Second, a real-time hydraulic calculation method was established, in which the influence of drilling pipes rotation and annular eccentricity were taken into account. In order to improve the calculation precision, the flow channel both in pipe and annuli was divided into several sections, through which the different diameters of the channels were considered. And in each section the variation of ESD caused by HTHP was considered too. A series of system software for hydraulics calculating and monitoring were developed, which include all common hydraulic model (Herschel-Bulkely, Robertson-Stiff, Four-parameter model and so on). We can not only use this system to calculate hydraulic parameters of bottom hole but also any other position both in annuli and pipe. The application of this system in the Tarim Basin and the Junggar Basin in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China shows the system can exactly monitoring hydraulic parameters and runs smoothly with convenient operation. Therefore it can be seen this system can be applied to provide more convenient, fast and precise hydraulics parameters monitoring while drilling.
Case History: Using Triazine Efficiently to Scavenge Hydrogen Sulfide in Coiled Tubing drilling Operations
Authors: Dugar Alejandro A. , Villalobos Mario J.
Published: October 2013

A major operator in Saudi Arabia is currently performing coiled tubing drilling in some gas wells. Fluid returning from well contains a high concentration of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), with an average of 3.0% to a maximum of 8.0% v/v of H2S reported. This gas is partially dissolved in the water produced from the well. The sour water is separated throughout two different vessels, then it is discharged into an atmospheric tank and ultimately into large, open bio-pits that a major operator designed to collect the effluents from the wells.

The composition of the sour water coming from the second separation vessel shows dissolved H2S content as high as 3,500 ppm. The current water treatment to scavenge H2S relies on a solution of iron-gluconate that is injected as a liquid after the second separator, before the water enters the atmospheric tank. However, the volume of iron-gluconate injected is excessive due to stoichiometric reactions.

A field-trial application was proposed utilizing a Triazine-based product as an alternative to the current treatment because Triazine can scavenge twice the amount of H2S as compared to iron-gluconate. In addition, the reaction products are water soluble, which means they will not precipitate into the sludge deposited at the bottom of the bio-pits, avoiding risks of later release of H2S when they are emptied.

The key performance indicators (KPIs) set by the major operator during the field-trial application included the treatment of H2S dissolved to a concentration less than 100 mg/L in the waste water. The sulfide concentration was monitored before and after chemical treatment utilizing the Garret Gas Train (GGT) for sulfides.

A total of 1,930 ft in 3 laterals were drilled, and H2S concentration in the waste water was successfully reduced to the desired levels utilizing the Triazine-based product with fewer volumes of chemical treatment.
Fuelling the Talent Engine at the Start of the Season
Authors: Currey Sharif , Drenth Harm , Tinkhof Rob , van Beelen Norbert
Published: October 2013

Iraq is taking a radically fresh approach towards developing local talent. Instead of setting high quotas for employing local staff, Iraq has established a mandatory annual investment through a Training, Technology Transfer and Scholarship Fund (TTTSF) as a condition of awarding oil and gas contracts. This money targets building broader Iraqi capability in the industry as opposed to an individual company's staff. This approach overcomes the economic struggle between early project spending versus developing the essential local skillpool required for sustained project success - essentially fuelling the talent-engine at the start of the season.

Shell Iraq Petroleum Development (SIPD) is paving the way by committing a portion of its annual TTTSF investment towards rolling out the first part of its Wells graduate training programme in its Majnoon operation in Southern Iraq. Dedicated recruitment and training staff are developing local Iraqi talent through a two-year programme culminating in a standardised assessment by Shell's Learning and Development team in The Netherlands. A pilot programme was started in February 2012 and the programme has been extremely successful to date. A second intake started in October 2012 and futher intakes are planned for 2013 and 2014.

This programme builds industry capacity in Iraq and is the key to SIPD's Wells succession plan. If a similar approach to early development of local talent were replicated across the industry in Iraq, it stands to revolutionise Iraq as a regional talent hub.

This paper outlines the main challenges faced in rolling out a structured Wells graduate training programme in the early development of the Majnoon field and describes how the challenges were overcome. An overview of the progam's success to date, current status and a forward-looking summary of the SIPD Wells Team's Iraqisation effort is presented.