bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An OpenMI-based combined model for alongshore sediment transport and shoreline change
Authors: Zhou Zeng , de San Roman Belén Lopez , Nicholls Robert
Published: September 2013

This paper describes the extension of a state-of-the-art one-line model in terms of alongshore sediment transport rate by linking with a cross-shore profile model through the OpenMI-based Pipistrelle interface. In order to combine these two models, three additional modules (Drift Interpolation module, Vector-to-Scalar module and Orientation Updating module) need to be developed, so that the two models which are based on different assumptions, coordinate systems and set-ups can be linked seamlessly. The existing two models and the three new modules are able to work together as a whole composition (i.e. the combined model) based on the OpenMI standard. This combined model aims to improve the one-line model in terms of alongshore sediment transport and beach morphological response predictability. It adopts both the modified Coastal Engineering Research Centre, USA (CERC) formula and the Energetics approach to calculate the alongshore sediment transport. Tests at a real curved coast demonstrate that the model is numerically stable, effective in computing and able to give reasonable predictions of shoreline change. It demonstrates that further research on linking existing models is promising.
Initial census, woody seedling, seed rain, and stand structure data for the SCBI SIGEO Large Forest Dynamics Plot
Authors: Bourg Norman A. , McShea William J. , Thompson Jonathan R. , McGarvey Jennifer C. , Shen Xiaoli
Published: September 2013

We present data from the first five years (2008–2012) of the establishment of the 25.6‐ha Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) Large Forest Dynamics Plot, comprising the initial woody stem census, woody seedling plot surveys, seed rain, and dendrochronological data. The plot is in mature secondary mixed deciduous forest 5 km south of Front Royal, Virginia, USA. The initial plot census enumerated 38 932 free‐standing living stems and 29 991 living individuals ≥1 cm dbh comprising 62 species, 38 genera, and 26 families, along with an additional 1248 dead/missing standing stems, for a total of 40 180 stems. Dominant canopy trees include tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), hickories (Carya spp.), oaks (Quercus spp.), white ash (Fraxinus americana), and black gum (Nyssa sylvatica). Prominent understory components include spicebush (Lindera benzoin), pawpaw (Asimina triloba), American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana), witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana), and eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis). Few species predominate numerically on the plot; seven species have >1000 individuals (71.3% of the total). Mean stand density was 1179 living individuals/ha, while mean basal area was 34.1 m2/ha. Of the total plot area, 4 ha have had white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) exclusion since 1990. Woody seedling surveys from 2010–2012 in 354 1‐m2 plots measured 19 415 seedlings of 47 species, from new germinants up to 1 cm dbh. Community‐wide seed rain data from 200 0.5‐m2 litterfall traps yielded a total of 9197 records from 37 species. Long‐term seed data collected from 1986–2011 for Quercus and Carya within the exclosure and two replicate sites are also presented, documenting considerable annual variation in mast production. Dendrochronological data from 492 tree cores suggested the major canopy trees established circa 1900, but scattered trees of several species existed earlier. Large‐scale forest dynamics plots employing standardized methodology have a long, rich history in the tropics. Similar plots in the temperate zone have been largely lacking, however. The SCBI plot represents one of the first of its kind in the Smithsonian Global Earth Observatory's recently established network of such plots, complementing its well‐known network of tropical forest plots and enabling comparative studies on forest ecology and climate change at the global scale.
Distinguishing individual quality from habitat preference and quality in a territorial passerine
Authors: Germain Ryan R. , Arcese Peter
Published: September 2013

Theory predicts that animals breeding in heterogeneous landscapes preferentially occupy habitats likely to maximize individual fitness, but identifying those habitats has proved problematic. Many studies develop metrics of habitat quality linked to site‐specific reproductive output measured in successive years, but few separate the independent effects of individual “intrinsic quality” from those due solely to the attributes of the habitats themselves. In many populations, processes such as competitive territory defense, longevity, site‐fidelity, and variation in breeding density and territory size over time have the potential to limit the degree to which individual and habitat quality will be positively related in nature. However, the effects of these processes on estimates of habitat or site‐specific reproductive output have not been thoroughly investigated. We show that, in an insular population of Song Sparrows (Melospiza melodia), females nested preferentially in breeding sites with high mean reproductive output assessed over 35 years, and that variation in site‐specific reproductive output was positively related to female intrinsic quality, measured here as the lifetime reproductive success of individual females relative to others hatched the same year (rLRS). In contrast, vegetation traits (shrub cover, edge, and soil depth) predicted female preference for breeding sites but did not predict site‐specific variation in annual reproductive output. Female quality also did not predict which females occupied more‐ or less‐preferred breeding sites over the study period. However, mean annual reproductive output of breeding sites estimated over 35 years was strongly positively related to the quality of the females that nested in them. Overall, these results indicate that site‐specific estimates of habitat quality that do not consider the quality of the individuals occupying those sites may include substantial bias due to variation in occupant quality, and thus may not reliably predict the intrinsic effects of habitat quality on individual or population fitness.
For Love, Legacy, or Pay: Legal and Pecuniary Aspects of Family Caregiving
Authors: Kapp Marshall B.
Published: September 2013

Most caregiving and companionship provided by family members and friends to older individuals in home environments occurs because of the caregiver’s feelings of ethical and emotional obligation and attachment. From a legal perspective, though, it might be ill-advised for an informal caregiver to admit such a motivation. Building on a recently published study of relevant litigation, this essay discusses changing cultural and legal aspects of family caregiving when there is some expectation of pay, property, or future financial legacy in return for the caregiver’s present work and sacrifices.
Correlation Between Resistivity and Petrophysical Parameters of a Carbonate Rock During Two-Phase Flow Displacements
Authors: Pairoys F. , Al-Zoukani A. , Keskin A.
Published: September 2013

In formation evaluation and reservoir engineering, resistivity index, relative permeability, and capillary pressure are crucial parameters for estimating oil reserves and planning a production scenario. They can be determined in the laboratory using Special Core Analysis, or SCAL techniques. Since they are all functions of fluid saturation, correlations between them may exist; but the literature on their inter-relationships is lacking. In this paper, experimental relative permeabilities and relative permeabilities obtained from resistivity measurements using Li’s model (2007) are compared for different immiscible brine-oil displacements.

An experimental study on a water-wet grainstone rock was initiated in order to measure its resistivity response during different ambient water-oil flow displacements. Three different flooding techniques were performed and compared. The most popular technique is the resistivity porous plate Pc-RI method where resistivity and capillary pressure are measured at equilibrium. The steady-state flooding method was also tested; resistivity and steady-state relative permeability were measured at the equilibrium state. Finally the fastest yet least reliable method is the transient technique or unsteady-state flooding method where resistivity and unsteady-state relative permeability are measured under transient conditions.

A comparison between resistivity index obtained from the three flooding techniques showed that the unsteady-state technique cannot give reliable resistivity index curve, and so should be avoided to infer Kr from resistivity measurements. The Pc-RI method provides the most reliable resistivity index curve but relative permeability can only be derived from the capillary pressure curve. Finally, the steady-state displacement was found to be the best method to compare experimental relative permeability with relative permeability inferred from resistivity. In spite of an acceptable match between them, an improvemnent of Li’s model is proposed.

Additional investigations such as effects of wettability and rock heterogeneities on these results will be necessary to validate the generality of the overall workflow.
Fluid Identification in Complex Clastic Reservoirs Using 2D NMR Maps: A Case Study from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Meridji Yacine , Hursan Gabor , Eid Mahmoud , Balliet Ron
Published: September 2013

The formation evaluation of Saudi Arabian reservoirs presents multiple challenges. The complexities encountered include varying mineralogy and mixed lithologies, a wide range of porosities and pore types, hydrocarbon viscosity, and variable formation water salinities.

Two-dimensional (2D) analysis of NMR data acquired with simultaneous T1-T2 has proven to be beneficial for the identification and quantification of hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs and providing valuable information about porosity and reservoir quality.

NMR porosity measurements are free from mineralogical effects and, therefore, provide a very good estimate of formation porosity. Moveable and bound fractional fluid porosities from NMR provide additional reservoir information and are used for estimating permeability. Simultaneous T1-T2 acquisition and two dimensional analyses provide graphic 2D identification for the presence of hydrocarbons and hydrocarbon type, as well as a volumetric estimate of near wellbore hydrocarbons independent of formation water resistivity.

Results from a simultaneous NMR T1-T2 acquisition are compared to formation tester results. The strong correlation between the NMR predictions and the formation tester results suggests this method is effective in the evaluation of challenging formations and might also be applicable to other reservoirs.
A Safe and Efficient Approach to 35/8" Coiled Tubing Reentry Drilling in Deep Gas Applications in Saudi Arabia; Successful Introduction of a New Wired CTD System
Authors: Khamees Shaker , Amri Khalifah , Khalil Mohamed , Humood Malik , Rangel Pedro , Cain Pat , Mehmood Khalid , Ganda Sukesh , Al-Herz Mohammad , Fuenmayor Luis , Al-Hajji Nawaf
Published: September 2013

Through tubing reentry drilling (3⅝") operations were first commenced in Saudi Arabia in 2008. Since then the application has proven to be an efficient and reservoir friendly method of reentry drilling. Old vertical and sometimes deviated candidate wells are screened and worked over bysetting a through tubing whipstock in the 4½", 5½" and 7" casings then exiting in a 3⅝" hole size. A curve section is then drilled at 20° to 35°/100 ft build up rate (BUR) and subsequently, lateral sections of 2,000 to 3,000 ft are drilled in the reservoir.

Despite the good learning curve, certain technical challenges are limiting the operating envelope of 3⅝" through tubing re-entry drilling (TTRD). Some of these challenges are: surface setup and pressure deployment, inefficient tool face control, vibration, releasing a stuck bottom-hole assembly (BHA), etc. Other challenges related to drilling snadestone reservoirs.

Keeping these challenges in mind, Saudi Aramco and Schlumberger (SLB) embarked on a project to develop a new drilling system, which would prevent and mitigate the risks highlighted above and allow safe application of 3⅝" TTRD to areas and fields where it was previously not practicable. This new drilling system was successfully deployed to the field in June 2012.

The paper will cover some of the key features of the new drilling system, which were proven during the first job.

Shorter BHA coupled with a customized tower, thereby eliminating the need for pressure deployment, greatly enhances safety and efficiency.

Secondary release mechanism allowing for 90% recovery of BHA in case of a stuck bit. High precision and variable speed orienting system for more precise tool face control. A single ball valve in the upper BHA eliminates the need to bleed off the coil tubing (CT) pressure during deployment operations when drilling with nitrogen, saving time and money. Ultra-sensitive vibration sensors coupled with a 2-3 second update rate allows for quick identification of performance drilling motor (PDM) or turbine stalls. Coupled with high buildup rate turbodrills, the new drilling system is capable of drilling tight curves and laterals through compact and abrasive pre-Khuff sandstones at more than double the rate of penetration (ROP) previously possible with PDMs in a reduced number of trips.

Wider deployment of this new drilling system would potentially unlock the true potential of the tight and abrasive pre-Khuff sandstone reservoir.
Offshore Field Completion Evolution Overcomes Field Challenges and Optimizes Multilateral Wells Production
Authors: Al-Amri Nami , Al-Yateem Karam , El-Fattah Mahmoud Abd , Gottumukkala Varma
Published: September 2013

Producing from a high-permeability sandstone reservoir such as in Saudi Arabia’s offshore fields has unique challenges, which include sand production, high-water production, and early water breakthrough due to active water drive and reservoir heterogeneity. These challenges add to the difficulty in the use of artificial lift where wells in different segments of the field were recently equipped with electrical submersible pumps (ESPs). This offshore field had seen an evolution of completion practices directed to resolve each challenge independently, until recently where an optimum integrated completion design was developed to overcome all challenges and optimize production, extend the producing life of the wells, and enhance recovery for the long term.

The subject wells were completed with multilaterals targeting different layers in the reservoir. Inflow control devices (ICD) were used in the open hole completion for each lateral to enhance the well’s influx balance and control/delay water production. The intelligent completions (IC) solution, which consists of inflow control valves (ICVs), permanent downhole monitoring system gauges, and multiport packers, are employed to control lateral production. In addition, a hydraulic line wet mate (HLWM) connect system is used to combine an ESP Pod system with an intelligent completion in multilateral wells. In most cases, due to the limited run life of an ESP, the pumps need to be replaced every few years. The HLWM connect system provides the flexibility to replace the ESP without having to retrieve the intelligent completion (ICVs, multiport packers, etc.), which saves cost and time.

This paper describes the integrated completion design used to overcome the subject field’s production challenges and will illustrate by an example how ICDs, ICVs, HLWM, and ESPs accomplished that goal. The integrated completion system helps enhance/optimize well production, allowing for efficiently draining the reservoir; and maximizing production and recovery. This paper will also summarize adapting the IC solution to practice and field example tests of such an IC solution design.
Enhancing Reservoir Understanding by Utilizing Business Intelligence Workflows
Authors: Al-Taiban Ali , Al-Zawawi Ahmed S. , Al-Ghamdi Tareq , Abouheit Fouad , Al-Harbi Badr , Baier Uwe
Published: September 2013

Saudi Aramco Upstream data volumes have been exploding exponentially over the past few years. Reservoir engineers need to quickly analyze huge volumes of multidisciplinary data coming from multiple sources scattered across the upstream business, such as simulation, seismic, corporate database and real time data from intelligent fields. In addition, it is crucial to capture the scattered multidisciplinary experience that Saudi Aramco has across the upstream business. Multidisciplinary professionals are utilizing many expert systems that require specialized experience in their areas. It is very important to break these silos and bridge the gaps to capture all the scattered knowledge and experience in an integrated media to build shared understanding within multidisciplinary teams. Business intelligence provides a platform for guided processes and workflows that help to overcome these challenges.

The developed reservoir engineering business intelligence workflows will help engineers to analyze, visualize and report reservoir simulation results, production development scenarios and economics to enhance decision making process. This paper will discuss the Saudi Aramco methodology to develop reservoir engineering business intelligence workflows that utilize advanced data mining, visual analytics, and predictive analytics techniques. In addition, we will review several workflows that improve the process of history matching and prediction by rapidly identifying trends, anomalies, outliers and patterns in the reservoir simulation results.
A Practical Method of Predicting Chemical Scale Formation in Well Completions
Authors: Hamid Syed , De Jesus Orlando , Jacinto Carlos , Izetti Ronaldo , Pinto Hardy , Droguett Enrique , Edwards Chris , Cassidy Juanita , Zhang Haoyue , Dagenais Pete , Batocchio Marcelo
Published: September 2013

Scale formation in downhole tubular-flow passages can cause partial to complete plugging that will affect production or injection rates adversely. In an intelligent well completion in which the interval control valve (ICV) positions must be changed in order to control flow rate; the completion will become ineffective, if plugging of clearances prevents valve actuation. To mitigate these problems, a method to predict the potential rate of scale formation under realistic conditions has been developed.

This paper describes this method, which allows prediction of tool performance under scale-forming conditions for downhole applications. This semi-empirical method uses chemical data and flow fields generated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models for downhole tools. Chemical data are obtained from laboratory tests on coupons using brines matching the chemistry of connate fluids. Tests in a high-pressure, corrosion-resistant vessel over a range of high pressures (100 to 10,000 psi) and high temperatures (75 to 150°C) to simulate downhole well conditions have been conducted. Two test sets each with fluid at rest and where an impeller generates low velocity in the reaction vessel were conducted, ranging from 4 hours to 4 days with scaling rates determined from coupon weight gain. Concentrations in the range of 50% to 125% of the typical connate fluid concentration were used.

The laboratory test data are used with velocity field data to develop an artificial-intelligence-based mathematical model to determine scale formation rates. The model can be applied to any tool geometry as long as the operating conditions are within allowable limits of the model. The model also provides some insight into the mechanism of scale formation.

To verify accuracy, scale formation in a 4.5-inch interval control valve was predicted at high-pressure, high-temperature conditions at a low flow rate. Laboratory tests on the valve matched the model predictions reasonably well, enabling Petrobras to design a better completion and fluid-handling system for a pre-salt well.
Practical Considerations for Pressure Transient Analysis of Multi-Stage Fractured Horizontal Wells in Tight Sands
Authors: Buhidma Ismail M. , Habbtar Ali , Rahim Zillur
Published: September 2013

Multistage propped hydraulic fracturing is applied to horizontal wells in tight sand reservoirs to increase the productivity and ultimate recovery per well. This technique is credited with the increased contribution of tight gas portfolio as part of the unconventional gas revolution in the United States. Horizontal wells and hydraulic fractured wells alter the flow geometry around the wellbore, and their expected flow regimes are well documented in the pressure transient analysis literature. The two geometries have some common characteristics such as linear flow behavior. The combined effect of horizontal wells and multistage fractures adds to the degree of freedom in test interpretation and makes more difficult to get a unique interpretation. Therefore it is critical to get a pre stimulation flow capacity from pre frac test on vertical pilot hole or a post frac test of the same.

In this paper we compare and contrast the pressure transient response of the multistage fractured horizontal well to that of vertical fractured and un-fractured horizontal well. We show that multistage fractured horizontal well response can often be matched with either vertically fractured well or with fractured horizontal well. Our simulation show that the long term response of the different interpretation are similar as long as we use drainage area with the same gas in place.

The above discussion will be presented in light of our expereicne with several case histories from tight gas wells. In particular, an example depicted in the paper where three buildup tests are available: pre-frac and post-frac tests on the vertical hole and post multistage frac test on its horizontal side track shows the flow behavior, reservoir and fracture properties, long-term flow response and performance, and the importance and impact of correct modeling of the well configuration.

The paper contributes to a better understanding of the pressure transient behavior of the complex multistage fracture system and provides practical guidelines for the correct analysis and interpretation of its well test data.
Minimizing Asphaltene Precipitation in Malaysian Reservoir
Authors: Ali Buriro Muhammad , Shuker Muhannad Talib
Published: September 2013

Unstable Asphaltene is major concern in oil reservoir under CO2 Water alternating Gas injection due to its unrecoverable damage to reservoir and expensive treatments for production system. Therefore, the effective strategy to control Asphaltene precipitation should be the part of reservoir management. Dealing unstable Asphaltene in Malaysian reservoir was divided into three main parts that were evaluating Asphaltene colloidal stability, Asphaltene Prediction and Asphaltene prevention.

Solid Detection System was used to measure the stability and onset pressure of crude oil under reservoir conditions with different amount of gas injections. Various PVT experiments were performed in the laboratory using the PVT cell. PVT data obtained from PVT cell is then fitted with the reliable equation of state (EOS) to generate the Asphaltene phase envelopes.

An inhibitor design program was initiated and four inhibitors, Inhibitor A, Inhibitor B, Inhibitor C and Inhibitor D were selected to evaluate their performance in neutral, acidic and basic environment. Titration Test was performed to evaluate the inhibitor efficiency. Inhibitor B in acidic environment was then selected as efficient inhibitor to inject in situ to control Asphaltene precipitation with injection gas.

Using this strategy, Asphaltene precipitation is expected to be minimized which will keep the reservoir undamaged and will save large amount of remedial cost.
Successful Optimization of Utilizing Multiphase Flow Meters (MPFMs) for Multiple Wells with a Wide Range of Fluid Properties in South Ghawar
Authors: Al-Sheri Ayedh M. , Al-Buhassan Shaker A. , El-Zefzafy Ibrahim M. , Al-Khalifah Hamzah A.
Published: September 2013

As the overhead expenses for production was beginning to increase in the South Ghawar oil field, an operation optimization opportunity became a basic need to fully utilize resources. The optimization called for shutting down and mothballing of three gas-oil separation plants (GOSPs) and rerouting wells production to the nearest respective GOSP. This process was expected to have minor effect on the production potential of individual wells, due to subsequent increments in the length of the flow line. Evaluation of production potential for all the rerouted wells within a very short time was made possible through the installation and commissioning of two multiphase flow meters (MPFMs) per GOSP to cover low and high flow rate range producers. In a well-planned and executed campaign, each group of wells were rigorously tested through their designated MPFM, the results analyzed, compared with historical data and further assessed against results of downhole production logging and wellhead samples for validation 4.

This paper discusses the unique experience gathered and lessons learned during this major resource optimization program, starting from the selection of MPFM type to the fine-tuning of the MPFM parameters to fit a relatively wide spectrum of flow ranges by using appropriate geochemical and pressure-volume-temperature (PVT) data and to finally arrive at a fairly accurate production rate measurement for the field. Each step in this process presented a challenge for the implementation team that mandated tremendous analysis and teamwork to overcome these challenges.
Applying Artificial Intelligence Techniques to Develop Permeability Predictive Models using Mercury Injection Capillary-Pressure Data
Authors: Nooruddin Hasan A. , Anifowose Fatai , Abdulraheem Abdulazeez
Published: September 2013

Since the early stage of the oil industry, many authors have recognized the importance of capillary pressure measurements using the mercury injection method (MICP) method in estimating permeability values. For that reason, numerous permeability models have been developed and proposed in literature. MICP is a very popular technique to determine pore size distributions and pore-throat properties. The capillary pressure profiles determined using this method are influenced generally by certain parameters that are controlled by permeability, including: degree of sorting, pore size distributions and pore throat properties.

Since MICP offers direct relation to permeability-related information, a good estimation of permeability should be obtained. Most of the available correlations produce high errors when compared to actual permeability measurements. To address this issue, a feedforward neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict permeability from the MICP measurements. The neural network consists of two hidden layers with 15 neurons each and one output layer.

A dataset of 206 core samples were used to train the ANN model. The dataset was divided into three sets: 70% for training, 15% for internal validation, and 15% for blind testing. A variety of parameters — porosity, displacement pressure, Swanson parameter, Winland parameter, Dastidar parameter, Pittman parameter, and Purcell integration — were extracted from the MICP data and inputted to the ANN model. In the analysis to evaluate the developed model against conventional models, graphical and statistical comparisons were used to determine the best technique for use.

Comparison between permeability models available in literature and the developed ANN model indicated significant improvement with the proposed model. Error measures — including: maximum absolute percent error (MAE), average relative percent error (ARE), average absolute relative percent error (AARE), correlation coefficient (R2), standard deviation (SD) and root mean squares (RMSE) — were used as the basis for interpreting the results and evaluating the comparative performance of the models. The developed ANN model demonstrated a reduction of about 50% in AARE and RMSE. Correlation coefficient also improved from 0.91 for the best conventional model to 0.98.
Assessment and management of health risks related to the recycling of filter backwash water in drinking water production
Authors: Loret J. F. , Cossalter L. , Robert S. , Baudin I. , Conan M. , Charles P.
Published: September 2013

Analytical campaigns were conducted on different drinking water treatment lines in order to characterize filter backwash water and assess the impact of recycling this water at the head of the plant. The pollutants identified in this water are essentially in the form of particles. Recycling this water may consequently increase the concentration of parameters such as turbidity, suspended solids, metals from coagulants and protozoa. On the other hand, no release of pesticides nor significant generation of disinfection by-products was observed during filter backwash with chlorinated water, in the conditions applied in France for chlorination.

A modeling approach based on the mass balance of Cryptosporidium oocysts was applied to estimate the impact of recycling on oocysts concentration in the inlet water. A risk of infection was then assessed for each recycling scenario. A similar approach was also applied for amoebae, which have the capacity to colonize filter media, and for metal residues from coagulants.

The results of this study demonstrate that two different situations have to be considered separately:

• In the case of treatment lines composed of separate sedimentation and filtration steps, recycling at the head of the treatment process, even with no treatment, has no significant consequence on the microbial quality of the inlet water, and generates no additional health risk for the consumer.

• In the case of treatment lines with no sedimentation step (direct filtration or UF used alone), recycling untreated water generates an excess of risk for the consumer which is not acceptable. Adding a coagulation / sedimentation step in the recycling circuit is sufficient in that case to keep the risk within acceptable limits.
Food Waste Disposal Units and their possible impact on sewer rat populations in the United Kingdom
Authors: Channon D. , Calderon S. , Groves L. , Torrance F.
Published: September 2013

Sewer Rats (Rattus norvegicus) are opportunist occupiers of parts of underground sewerage networks. Their occupation in part depends upon their ability to scavenge food particles from faecal matter in the sewer flow. Food Waste Disposal Units, also called Garbage Grinders or Waste Macerators, are relatively uncommon in the United Kingdom (UK) but may become more common as pressure is put on other methods of waste disposal. Since these units put undigested food into the sewer network, some assessment needed to be made on any potential impacts on the sewer rodent population. This is important since policy relating to the acceptance of waste disposal units (WDUs) was based upon outputs. A selection of WDUs were acquired and a series of standardised tests were performed on a variety of food groups to assess whether the output of these units would represent a potential food resource for rats in sewers.

These results are presented graphically in the text, and show that a large proportion of the output would be available to rats.
Pre-Operative Assessment and Post-Operative Care in Elective Shoulder Surgery
Authors: Akhtar Ahsan , MacFarlane Robert J , Waseem Mohammad
Published: September 2013

Pre-operative assessment is required prior to the majority of elective surgical procedures, primarily to ensure that the patient is fit to undergo surgery, whilst identifying issues that may need to be dealt with by the surgical or anaesthetic teams. The post-operative management of elective surgical patients begins during the peri-operative period and involves several health professionals. Appropriate monitoring and repeated clinical assessments are required in order for the signs of surgical complications to be recognised swiftly and adequately.

This article examines the literature regarding pre-operative assessment in elective orthopaedic surgery and shoulder surgery, whilst also reviewing the essentials of peri- and post-operative care. The need to recognise common post-operative complications early and promptly is also evaluated, along with discussing thromboprophylaxis and post-operative analgesia following shoulder surgery.
Fractures of the Clavicle: An Overview
Authors: Donnelly Thomas D , MacFarlane Robert J , Nagy Mathias Thomas , Ralte Peter , Waseem Mohammad
Published: September 2013

Fractures of the clavicle are a common injury and most often occur in younger individuals. For the most part, they have been historically treated conservatively with acceptable results. However, over recent years, more and more research is showing that operative treatment may decrease the rates of fracture complications and increase functional outcomes. This article first describes the classification of clavicle fractures and then reviews the literature over the past decades to form a conclusion regarding the appropriate management.

A thorough literature review was performed on assessment of fractures of the clavicle, their classification and the outcomes following conservative treatment. Further literature was gathered regarding the surgical treatment of these fractures, including the methods of fixation and the surgical approaches used. Both conservative and surgical treatments were then compared and contrasted.

The majority of recent data suggests that operative treatment may be more appropriate as it improves functional outcome and reduces the risk of complications such as non-union. This is particularly evident in mid shaft fractures, although more high grade evidence is needed to fully recommend this, especially regarding certain fractures of the medial and lateral clavicle.
Superior Labral Anterior Posterior Lesions of the Shoulder
Authors: Malal Joby Jacob George , Khan Yousaf , Farrar Graville , Waseem Mohammed
Published: September 2013

Superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) lesion is of fairly recent description and its understanding is rapidly evolving. Its incidence and need for surgical treatment has increased exponentially in line with the increase in shoulder arthroscopies. It is of particular importance in the elite over head athlete and the young. A range of arthroscopic techniques and devices have been described with good functional results. The ability to return to pre injury level of sports remains a concern.
Setting the Stage for a Valuable Educational Resource
Authors: Roepke Jon
Published: September 2013

This article addresses the roadblocks to collaborative computing using traditional computing and educational learning systems. With the emergence of tablet computing devices, many of the barriers to technology-driven collaboration have come down. The proliferation of these devices in educational environments has increased significantly and, as a result, opened the door for more innovative and engaging learning environments. New classroom presentation technologies that allow educators to expand the use of tablets now promise to replace interactive whiteboards, document cameras and related computing systems. This article presents one such technology that has several advantages over alternative presentation systems, including greater collaboration, ease-of-use, and lower capital and operational costs.
Dietary Acid, Age, and Serum Bicarbonate Levels among Adults in the United States
Authors: Amodu Afolarin , Abramowitz Matthew K.
Published: September 2013

Background and objectives

Greater dietary acid has been associated with lower serum bicarbonate levels in patients with CKD. Whether this association extends to the general population and if it is modified by age are unknown.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This study examined the association of the dietary acid load, estimated by net endogenous acid production, with serum bicarbonate levels in adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2004.

Results

The mean serum bicarbonate was 24.9 mEq/L (SEM=0.1), and the mean estimated net endogenous acid production was 57.4 mEq/d (SEM=0.4). Serum bicarbonate was linearly associated with age, such that the oldest participants had the highest serum bicarbonate levels. After multivariable adjustment, participants in the highest quartile of net endogenous acid production had 0.40 mEq/L (95% confidence interval, −0.55 to −0.26) lower serum bicarbonate and a 33% (95% confidence interval, 3 to 72) higher likelihood of acidosis compared with those participants in the lowest quartile. There was a significant interaction by age of the association of net endogenous acid production with serum bicarbonate (P=0.005). Among participants 20–39, 40–59, and ≥60 years old, those participants in the highest net endogenous acid production quartile had 0.26 (95% confidence interval, −0.49 to −0.03), 0.60 (95% confidence interval, −0.92 to −0.29), and 0.49 (95% confidence interval, −0.84 to −0.14) mEq/L lower serum bicarbonate, respectively, compared with participants in the lowest quartile.

Conclusion

Greater dietary acid is associated with lower serum bicarbonate in the general US population, and the magnitude of this association is greater among middle-aged and elderly persons than younger adults.
Ash fouling monitoring and key variables analysis for coal fired power plant boiler
Authors: Shi Yuanhao , Wang Jingcheng
Published: September 2013

Ash deposition on heat transfer surfaces is still a significant problem in
coal-fired power plant utility boilers. The effective ways to deal with this
problem are accurate on-line monitoring of ash fouling and soot-blowing. In
this paper, an online ash fouling monitoring model based on dynamic mass and
energy balance method is developed and key variables analysis technique is
introduced to study the internal behavior of soot-blowing system. In this
process, artificial neural networks (ANN) are used to optimize the boiler
soot-blowing model and mean impact values method is utilized to determine a
set of key variables. The validity of the models has been illustrated in a
real case-study boiler, a 300MW Chinese power station. The results on same
real plant data show that both models have good prediction accuracy, while
the ANN model II has less input parameters. This work will be the basis of a
future development in order to control and optimize the soot-blowing of the
coal-fired power plant utility boilers.
Romania – Dimensions of Regional Cultural Specificity
Authors: Neculăesei Angelica Nicoleta
Published: September 2013

An increasing importance is given to intercultural research in management. The cultural “inheritance” of individuals is of interest to us from a double perspective: a) to avoid problems that can arise from ignoring their value profile, b) for valuing it by positive “exploitation”. Cultural positioning is achieved by comparisons made according to certain criteria (cultural dimensions). They are known in the literature and for ethical approaches they emphasize cultural similarities and differences. Although they largely reflect the values of culture, they can not cover issues that come from the known sphere for the ones who propose them. Based on this idea, in this study we have adapted cultural dimensions to the Romanian cultural specificity elements, based on a comprehensive inventory of values, developed following a diachronic exploratory analysis. Furthermore, we have proposed two new dimensions that reflect regional specificities.
Has the NAFTA Foundation Affected Business Cycles Length? An Introduction
Authors: Dapontas Dimitrios , Evangelopoulos Panagiotis
Published: September 2013

This paper is explaining the relationship between NAFTA foundation and business cycles length. Has the participation in a multinational organization changed their frequency? Initially; we used GDP per capita growth annual data for each country countries (Canada, Mexico and USA) for 63 years (1950-2012). The data was cut for each country in two pieces one before the 1995 and one on the year of integration and after. Then we selected their spectral density plots in order to find periodicity eliminating the background noise from a periodogram. The results show that Canada doubled its cycle length progressively. Mexico and USA seem to have currently smaller but growing cycles than they used to have.
Exergy Balances and Entropy Generation Rates as the Mathematical Models Falsification Method Applied for Aluminium Electrolysis Processes
Authors: Hołda A. , Kolenda Z.
Published: September 2013

A new method of falsification of the mathematical model of the processes taking place inside the aluminium electrolysis cell has been proposed. The method is based on the comparison of the calculation results of the entropy generation rates obtained in theoretical way with the exergy losses estimated from global exergy balance equation. Following irreversible processes have been analyzed - electric current flow, diffusion at the cathode, heat and electric current flow through the anode and cathode, irreversible carbon combustion, heat transfer from electrolyser to the surroundings and convection inside the electrolyte. Exergy balance calculations have been based on the experimental results from industry. The proposed procedure shows good accuracy between mathematical model and experimental data.
Strain-Induced Austenitic Structure in Microalloyed Steels
Authors: Dziedzic D. , Muszka K. , Majta J.
Published: September 2013

Austenite morphology is one of the main factors determining austenite-ferrite transformation kinetic and effectively affects the final microstructure and properties. The basic criteria for proper assessment of the austenite transformation products, theirs refinement, is the relation between the nucleation to growth rates. The main factor accelerating both, the nucleation rate of austenite during heating, and ferrite during cooling is the presence of accumulated deformation energy. The primary aim of this work is to increase our knowledge of the effects of deformation - its accumulated energy on the austenite structure and properties. Two specific steel grades were selected for the present investigation, i.e. microalloyed and IF steel, essentially different in equilibrium transformation temperatures. Obtained austenitic microstructures were analyzed, first of all as a start point for the austenite-to-ferrite transformation. Specific case of this transformation was considered i.e. Strain Induced Dynamic Transformation SIDT. The characteristic feature of the SIDT is the strong dependence of theirs kinetic on the austenite morphology, especially grain size. Thermomechanical processing, that utilize the SIDT, is one of the most effective ways to produce ultrafine-grained steel. One of the main benefits of the austenite refinement, just before the γ→α transformation, is its significant effect on the microstructure evolution during subsequent thermomechanical processing. Experimental results clearly show how direct and positive influence the austenite grain refinement has on the composition and refinement of transformation products. Presented study was focused on Strain Induced Dynamic Reverse Transformation. It is proved that this kind of transformation is very efficient way to intensify thermomechanical processing of microalloyed steels. Dynamic transformation kinetics were analyzed based upon flow curves recorded during the SIDT process. The main effect of presented research is analyze of influence of prior microstructure on dynamically formed austenite morphology
Thermal Fatigue of the Selected Tool Steel Applied for Metal Moulds Elements in Die Casting of Metals
Authors: Zych J.
Published: September 2013

The work presents the results of research on thermal fatigue resistance of four steel grades used in the production of metal moulds for pressure diecasting. Thermal fatigue tests were performed on an original test bench using the L.F Coffin method - resistance heated samples. The steels additionally contained alloy additives in the following proportions: Cr = 5.0 ÷5.3%, Mo = 1.30 ÷3.0%, and V = 0.50 ÷1.0%. The thermal fatigue was analyzed using the temperature cycle: Tmin = 200°C; Tmax = 700 ÷750°C. The samples endured between few to few dozens of thousands of temperature cycles in the above temperature range. Steel with maximum vanadium content exhibited the highest level of resistance.
Innovated Construction of Tundish Cover with Increased Service Durability
Authors: Stachurski W. , Łukasik J. , Kwinta G. , Sobula S. , Ostafin Sz.
Published: September 2013

In this study a new concept of the cover for installation for continuous casting of steel have been studied and discussed. The main essence in the most favourable construction includes the existing stresses and strains developed in service conditions. Instead of former cover, made with heat-resistant concrete and flat plate, the new solution introduced two factors: increased rigidity whole cover and new thermal insulation material. It is a composite refractory material, more light, plastic and more resistant for thermal shocks. In the final results, the new tundish cover confirmed in practice prolongation of the cover exploitation from 15-25 000 tones to above 90 000 tones poured steel.
Integrated Recycling Process of Matrices of Organic Moulding Sands
Authors: Dańko R.
Published: September 2013

The idea and experimental verification of assumptions of the integrated recycling process of matrices of uniform self-hardening moulding sands with synthetic resins, leading to obtaining moulding sands matrix of expected quality - is presented in the hereby paper. The basis of the presented process constitutes a combination of the method of forecasting averaged ignition losses of moulding sands after casting and defining the range of necessary matrix reclamation treatments in order to obtain its full recycling. Simultaneously, the empirically determined dependence of dusts amounts emitted during the reclamation process of the matrix from the given spent sand on the ignition loss values (which is the most proper assessment index of the obtained reclaimed material quality) was taken into account. The special experimental stand for investigations of the matrix recycling process was one of the elements of the conceptual approach and verification of its assumptions. The stand was equipped with the system of current on-line control of the purification degree of matrix grains from organic binder remains. The results of own investigations, allowing to combine ignition loss values of spent moulding sands after casting knocking out with amounts of dusts generated during the mechanical reclamation treatment of such sands, were utilized in the system.
Ductile Cast Iron Obtain by Lost Foam Process and Inmold Method
Authors: Kaczorowski R. , Just P. , Pacyniak T.
Published: September 2013

This paper presents a technology of ductile cast iron obtain by lost foam process with use of inmold method. Spheroidization was carried out using master alloy in an amount of 1.5% by mass on casting iron. Research the influence of the gating system configuration and the shape of the reaction chamber, the degree of spheroidization cast iron, which estimated based on the shape of the graphite. Research have shown that the greatest impact on the degree of spheroidization has cast the infusion position relative to the casting inlet and the reaction chamber, and the shape of the reaction chamber.