bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Media Strategies for Seamless Learning
Authors: Panke Stefanie , Kohls Christian , Gaiser Birgit
Published: November 2016

The chapter discusses best practice approaches and metrics for evaluation that support seamless learning with social media on three different organizational levels: (1) the learning organization, (2) the learning program/curriculum, and (3) the individual teacher/learner. Initially, we establish how social media and seamless learning are connected, by sketching a brief overview of the history and evolution of each concept. We draw upon the theoretical frameworks of social learning theory, transfer learning (bricolage), and educational design patterns to elaborate upon different ideas for ways in which social media can support seamless learning. To exemplify how social media can support seamless learning we follow up with presenting three case studies on the organizational level, on the program level, and on the individual level. Each case study analyzes the context for the use of social media, followed by a discussion of how social media serves as a catalyst for seamless learning.
Pursuit of Operational Excellence
Authors: Welch Christine , Sinha Tammi , Ward Nigel
Published: November 2016

Operational Excellence (OE) is achieved when high performance teams are seeking for continuous improvement in well-designed processes, using appropriate tools and technologies. Excellence is underpinned by a philosophy in which problem-solving, team-working and effective leadership combine to focus upon customer needs, and all employees are empowered to act to maintain optimal flows of value. OE is clearly a desirable quality of organizations seeking both effectiveness and efficiency in their production of goods and services for customers. OE is underpinned by concepts such as team-working, effective leadership and change management, and depends upon effective flows of value. Systems Thinking (ST) is consequently at the heart of genuine excellence. This paper was conceived in the context of a Community of Practice of business improvement professionals, who took Operational Excellence as their agenda for inquiry during sessions in 2015. Reflection upon practice discussed at these meetings, together with the literature of change management and continuous improvement, have led to development of a systemic ‘landscape' model for pursuit of Operational Excellence. The elements of this model are set out, showing how they can contribute to OE.
A Managerial and Linguistic Perspective on Researching Manager Behaviour Aimed at Replacing Human Managers with Robots
Authors: Alnajjar Justyna , Flak Olaf
Published: November 2016

This paper takes on both a managerial and linguistic perspective on conducting research into manager behaviour. It presents theoretical foundations for creating knowledge about the activities of team managers using a system of organisational terms, and showcases how linguistic analysis can be applied to enhance findings in the area of management studies. The authors discuss the results of an experiment carried out with management students within the field of project planning. The students played the roles of team managers and were asked to plan a specific project using specified online management tools: Goaler (to set up goals) and Tasker (to describe tasks). All activities of experiment participants were recorded by these tools.
New Causal Model for Brazilian Private Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Bischof-dos-Santos Christiane , Takahashi Adriana Roseli Wünsch , Giacomini Mônica Maier , Rocha Clarissa Figueiredo , Da Veiga Claudimar Pereira , Duclós Luiz Carlos
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this paper is to extend knowledge of enterprise architecture and the importance of the operating model of a firm through a Dynamic Capabilities perspective. First, the authors attempt to position Private Educational Institutions in an operating model. They propose a model that relates enterprise architecture to the dynamic capabilities approach. A questionnaire was prepared in accordance with the proposed structural equation model and was sent to 1,932 private universities. The results show a significant relationship between operational model dimensions and reconfiguring capability. This paper contributes with a better understanding of enterprise architecture regarding its strategic relevance to organizations, in particular to Educational Institutions. Dynamic Capabilities proved to be a relevant and promising concept for the study of Enterprise Architecture operating models. This implies that the reconfiguring capabilities in Enterprise Architecture project implementation are positively affected by the operating model of the institutions.
A Novel Recommendation System for Dental Services Based on Online Word-of-Mouth
Authors: Hsu Wen-Chin , Chen Li-Chuan
Published: November 2016

Electronic word of mouth (eWoM) is one of the most valuable resources available to consumers in the search for products and services. This paper presents a novel recommendation system in which eWoM citations compiled using search engines are filtered according to the preferences and requirements of users. The proposed mechanism uses descriptive term creation to formalize the language used in searches, which is then classified according to the Rational Decision Making model to facilitate the analysis of eWoM. The proposed system was evaluated by applying it to the search for dental services in Chungli, Taiwan. Experiment results show that the proposed system reduces the time and effort required to sift through search results. Participants reported that the proposed system excels in quality and effectiveness and had a positive effect on their satisfaction and behavioral intentions. From a managerial perspective, the proposed system provides a valuable tool with which to improve service quality by identifying areas in which previous users have provided negative commentary via eWoM.
Thermal Shock Resistance of Liquid Phase Sintered SiC
Authors: de Mello Roberta Monteiro , Bressiani Ana Helena de Almeida
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Y2O3:Al2O3 additives and sintering temperature on thermal shock resistance of silicon carbide sintered via liquid phase. Silicon carbide samples containing 10 mol% Y2O3:Al2O3 (1:3 and 1:4) were prepared, compacted and sintered at 1750, 1850 and 1950 °C in a graphite resistive furnace. Thermal shock resistance was evaluated after each thermal cycle performed at 600, 750 and 900 °C followed by abrupt cooling in water. Samples with two Y2O3:Al2O3 proportions did not show major differences when sintered at the same temperature, though, rising the sintering temperature improves Y2O3:Al2O3 modified-SiC thermal shock resistance.
Estimate of the Anisotropy Field of Strontium Ferrite from Powders Using the Stoner-Wohlfarth Model
Authors: de Campos Marcos Flavio , Romero Sergio A. , Rodrigues Daniel
Published: November 2016

The isotropic Stoner-Wohlfarth model can be applied for the determination of the anisotropy field in powders. Samples of strontium ferrite - SrFe12O19 – were measured in Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). By means of the fitting of the first quadrant of the hysteresis curve the anisotropy field was estimated as 19-20 kOe for the SrFe12O19 phase. The main advantage of the method is its simplicity, because compacting or sintering of the powder samples is not necessary
High Technology Applications of Barium and Strontium Ferrite Magnets
Authors: de Campos Marcos Flavio , Rodrigues Daniel
Published: November 2016

Ceramic magnets as barium ferrite or strontium ferrite have many applications in high technology. One of the reasons is the low cost when compared to competitor materials, as Alnico, MnBi, MnAl or NdFeB. In this study, the advantages and disadvantages of Ba and Sr ferrite magnets are discussed. One clear advantage is that ferrites are already oxides, and do not present the corrosion problems typical of NdFeB and other metallic alloys. As ferrites are oxides, the processing is much easier and cheaper. For example sintering can be done at air, and milling under wet condition. One of the main conclusions is the excellent ratio cost/benefit of ferrites, giving advantage in many applications. Special attention is given for application of ferrites in high efficiency motors.
Part II - Microstructural and Physical of Calcium Phosphate Biomaterials Obtained from Natural Raw Materials
Authors: Floriano-Silva Daiara , Camargo Nelson Heriberto Almeida , Mamani Camila Thais , Franczak Priscila Ferraz , Eckstein Marli Baltazar Roesler , Possamai Maicon Douglas
Published: November 2016

Calcium phosphate bioceramics obtained from raw materials are potential bone substitutes in orthopedic and dental applications. Calcium phosphates attained from calcareous shells using wet methods provide an interconnected microporous framework, shown to be promising and contribute to cell adhesion and proliferation. This study aimed to characterize three different calcium phosphate ratio compositions: (i)1.4, (ii)1.6 and (iii)1.7 molar, sintered for 2 hours at 1100°C and 1200°C. Scanning electron microscopy field effect [FEG] and confocal were used to assess microstructural characterization and Arthur method to determine open porosity. FEG and confocal analyses showed good grain coalescence, sinterability and well defined interfaces for all Ca/P molar at 1100°C and 1200°C. Open porosity and hydrostatic density exhibit better results when using Ca/P molar ratio (iii)1.7 at 1100°C. The results showed that open porosity is related to Ca/P ratio and by temperature. As the Ca/P increases so does the open porosity. Inversely occurs for temperature. As the temperature increases the porosity decreases and in parallel, the grain size increases.
Effect of Iron and Vanadium on the Phase Transition of Titanium Dioxide Obtained by Polymeric Precursor Method
Authors: de Carli Eduardo Felipe , dos Santos Maycon , da Cruz Natali Amarante , Manfroi Daniela Cristina , Stropa Jusinei Meireles , de Oliveira Lincoln Carlos Silva , Zaghete Maria Aparecida , Cavalheiro Alberto Adriano
Published: November 2016

The titanium dioxide phase formation is dependent on the synthesis method, temperature of calcination and modifiers insertion. By using chemical methods, such as Polymeric Precursor Method, the organic impurities or extrinsic defects caused by doping play an important rule on the formation of precursor structure before the phase crystallization above 500 oC. Some dopants can change the decomposition mechanism of the precursor, which affects the anatase-rutile phase transition. In this work, the Polymeric Precursor Method was used to synthesize titanium dioxide powder samples in order to investigate the effects of iron (III) and vanadium (V) dopants on the phase formation. Through thermal analysis of polymeric precursors and X-ray diffractometry for calcined powder samples it was possible to show the existence of antagonistic effects for both investigated dopants. While the iron doping reduces the anatase phase tetragonality and delays the rutile phase conversion, the vanadium one changes the mechanism of decomposition of polymeric precursor and leads to more amount of rutile phase.
Production of Single-Phase Hydroxyapatite Porous Bodies from Gypsum/Polystyrene
Authors: Barbosa Amanda A. , Ferraz Andrea V. , Santos Geciane A. , Olivier Nelson C. , Dantas Alan Christie Silva
Published: November 2016

Porous bodies were produced using hydroxyapatite as a starting material, gypsum, high purity material, low cost and that can be molded into the desired shape. Also, beads of polystyrene polymer. The first step of this work was to produce porous gypsum blocks obtained by mixing gypsum, water and polystyrene. After drying, they were submerged in acetone solvent for solubilizing the polymer and pore formation. The porous hydroxyapatite was synthesized in a second stage, where the porous gypsum blocks were immersed in a solution of (NH4)2HPO4 0.5 mol L-1 to 100 ° C and pH 7.0-9.0 for 24 hours. From this method, it was possible to produce bodies single phase hydroxyapatite with a maximum porosity of 70 ± 3% and a compressive strength of 1.48 ± 0.17 MPa.
Evaluation of Filtration Properties of Clay Suspensions under Different Thermic Conditions
Authors: Nascimento R.C.A.M. , Costa A.C.A. , Fernandes L.A. , Amorim Luciana Viana
Published: November 2016

In clay suspensions designed for drilling, the sodic bentonite clay is commonly chosen for its better hydration capacity compared to the other kinds. The sodium bentonite clay is essentially composed by montmorilonite, a clay mineral that belongs to the group of smectites. This work aims to evaluate the behavior of clay suspensions under different thermic conditions. For that, were studied suspensions prepared with sodium bentonite clay, in concentrations varying between 2.5% and 6.4%, under different temperatures and also types of aging. The suspensions were tested based on a matrix of experimental planning. The filtration properties were determined by the filtrate volume, the relation of filtrate volume with time of filtration, the mudcake thickness and the permeability of the mudcake. The results exhibited that the high temperature promotes a gelification state of the suspensions, being therefore responsible for the high values of the filtration properties.
Measurement and Comparison of Pozzolanic Activity of Siliceous Materials Using Mechanical Tests
Authors: de Soares Marcela M.N.S. , Garcia D.C.S. , Figueiredo Roberto B. , Aguilar Maria Teresa Paulino , Cetlin Paulo Roberto
Published: November 2016

The classification of mineral additives used in cementitious materials is dependent on many factors such as morphology and composition, but it also depends on the kinetics of the reaction with calcium hydroxide, also known as its pozzolanicity. Several tests are used to evaluate the reactivity of siliceous material in the presence of calcium hydroxide, but some of these tests are not quantitative and there is no known correlation between the results of the various tests. Therefore, this study presents the results of compression and bending tests of samples containing different levels of substitution of cement by siliceous materials. Ground quartz, silica fume, and a silica-rich industrial waste at work were used. The results show that the mechanical tests are more affected by the substitution content than by the nature of the substitution.
Effect of Flat Glass Powder on the Slump Test and Microstructure of Portland Cement Concrete
Authors: Miranda Jr. Edson Jansen Pedrosa , Paiva A.E.M.
Published: November 2016

A differential feature of this study was the analysis of the slump test and microstructure of Portland cement concrete containing a little-studied type of waste – flat glass powder. The concrete was produced using 5%, 10% and 20% (by mass) of waste glass in place of sand, and water-to-cement (w/c) ratios of 0.50, 0.55 and 0.58. The slump of concrete decreased with increasing glass powder content at the three w/c ratios and its fluidity was impaired with 20% of waste glass at the w/c ratio of 0.50. A scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed a reduction in voids as the waste glass content increased from 0% to 10%. At the above mentioned percentages, flat glass powder shows a promising potential for use as fine aggregate in Portland cement concrete. However, the use of plasticizers should be considered for concrete with low w/c ratios (less than 0.50) and high waste glass percentages (more than 20%).
Influence of Particle Size and Soak Conditions of the Species Simarouba amara on Cement-Wood Composites
Authors: Bezerra H.J.C.L. , Pereira S.J. , Miranda Jr. Edson Jansen Pedrosa , Paiva A.E.M. , Politi F.S.
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this work was to produce a mix design rarely reported in the literature on wood-cement composites, i.e., 1:1:0.5 (cement:wood:water). This design was achieved by using CP IV-32 RS cement and adding 4% of ferric chloride additive plus fibers of the species Simarouba amara (paparaúba) retained on ASTM 7 and ASTM 10 sieves. Before mixing the fibers into the cement paste, they were presoaked for 15 minutes to between 84% to 136% of their mass. In these conditions, all the heat of hydration tests presented low inhibition. Panels measuring 300 x 450 x 25 mm were prepared, and the values of compressive and flexural strength of the composite after 28 days showed no significant differences with respect to soak, but the effect of particle size was significant. These results indicate that more fiber can be added in the mix design of this cement-wood composite without changing its mechanical strength, controlling only the presoak conditions.
Morphological Analysis of the Amorphous Carbon Embedded Nickel-Silica Composite Submitted at Gradual Oxidation
Authors: Cavalheiro Alberto Adriano , Barbosa Graciele Vieira , Fischer Eliane Kujat , de Sá Igor Silva , de Medeiros Tiziana Azario , da Silva Margarete Soares
Published: November 2016

Amorphous embedded nickel-silica composites can be directly obtained by Polymeric Precursor Method when the polymeric precursor is pyrolysed in controlled atmosphere. The metallic particles dispersion into the matrix composite is very important to material applications, but the resistance against the oxidation under extreme conditions is also required. In this work, nickel-silica nanocomposite sample was synthesized for containing amorphous carbon as matrix interphase through the direct route based on the Polymeric Precursor Method. The composite sample was obtained by pyrolysis of polymeric precursor at 600 oC for 1 hour under nitrogen flow and then submitted to oxidation in oxygen flow at 400 oC up to 7 hours. It was observed by Transmission Electron Microscopy the metallic nickel nanoparticles present high dispersion into matrix composite. However, in spite of the border of the composite particles are easily oxidized and originate nickel oxide phase, as proven by X-Ray Diffraction, the amorphous carbon phase acts as protective phase for the majority of the composite sample. By Nitrogen Adsorption-Desorption Isotherms at 77 K it was demonstrated the carbon phase also preserves significantly the mesoporous nature of the composite under oxidation process.
Influence of Polyester Chain Type in the Morphology of Silica-Carbon Composites Obtained by the Polymeric Precursor Method
Authors: de Medeiros Tiziana Azario , Fischer Eliane Kujat , de Sá Igor Silva , Barbosa Graciele Vieira , da Silva Margarete Soares , Cavalheiro Alberto Adriano
Published: November 2016

Particulate composite materials containing metallic phase in ceramic matrices may be obtained by direct routes with the advantage of avoiding the partial collapse of the composite structure when a subsequent step for metal insertion is carried out. The non-metallic silica-carbon matrix combines high values of pore volume and surface area with chemical refractivity and may be applied as molecular sieves, adsorbents, filters and catalyst support. The Polymeric Precursor Method is a versatile method to obtain this composite type as the metal precursor can be reduced to metallic phase by pyrolysis of organic matter. In this work, it was used three different diol chain sizes obtaining silica-carbon composites through the pyrolysis of polyester precursor at 600°C for 3 hours in closed tubular oven. It was observed a direct dependence between the amorphous carbon phase amount and the polyester chain size. All of the composite samples presented dual distribution for mesopore size, situated at 3.8 and 11 nm in diameter. However, the pore volume and surface area significantly lowers for larger polyester chain sizes.
Synthesis and Characterization of MgO/MCM-22 as Catalytic Support Using the Impregnation Technique
Authors: Fernandes Caroline Vasconcelos , Freire Vitória de Andrade , de Sousa Bianca Viana
Published: November 2016

MCM-22 is a microporous molecular sieve with a system of sinusoidal three-dimensional channels that do not interconnect themselves, which presents good adsorption capacity and high acidity. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the chemical and structural properties of the catalyst MgO/MCM-22 using wet impregnation method. The synthesis of the zeolite was performed using the static hydrothermal method. Through the XRD patterns, it was possible to observe that the metal incorporation process did not cause structural changes, as well as the analysis showed small peaks related to the magnesium oxide in the structure. The micrographs presented a spherical morphology with depression in the central region. FTIR spectra showed the typical peaks of metal with little differences in the typical peaks of MCM-22.
The Use of Long Chain Diol for Obtaining Nickel Embedded in Silica-Carbon Matrix through the Polymeric Precursor Method
Authors: Fischer Eliane Kujat , Barbosa Graciele Vieira , de Sá Igor Silva , de Medeiros Tiziana Azario , da Silva Margarete Soares , Cavalheiro Alberto Adriano
Published: November 2016

Silica-carbon composites have large surface area and porosity and combines low density with refractoriness and high corrosion resistance, which make it a good choice for application as mesoporous matrix for composite catalysts. The insertion of nanoparticulate active phase can originate new properties for that composite type, such as catalysts for industrial methane hydro-reforming or other applications. However, there is a strong dependence among the composite morphology, active phase dispersion and porosity, originating a wide variation in the final properties. In this work, the Precursor Polymeric Method was modified to insert a long chain diol as polymerizing agent in order to insert large amount of carbon phase in the composite. The samples were obtained through the pyrolysis of the polymeric precursor prepared with tetraethylene glycol. Composite samples with high dispersion of nickel nanoparticles were obtained even after 1 hour of pyrolysis, but the porosity showed to be dependent of time of pyrolysis, mainly for mesopores with 3.8 nm in diameter.
Obtaining and Characterization of Porous Bodies Obtained by Gelatinization
Authors: Storion Ana Gabriela , Maestrelli Sylma Carvalho , Ramalho Pinto Eric , de Freitas Juliana Cristina , Mariano W.A. , Caovila Lucas , del Roveri Carolina
Published: November 2016

Porous ceramics have certain unique properties such as high toughness and resistance to heating at elevated temperatures. These properties make them products of great interest for applications on the field of filters and biomaterials. This paper proposes a new technique, called gelatinization, for processing this class of ceramics in order to obtain materials with more controlled pore size, plus a more homogeneous distribution. In order to check the efficiency of this technique, it was used as a raw material powders of calcined alumina and titania, previously characterized, mixed with unflavored gelatin, water and dispersant for holding the ceramic conformation. Three different formulations (with 40, 50 and 55% of solids content) were investigated using alumina and titania separately. The results indicated that the most suitable composition in terms of moldability was 55% of solids. It was also observed that the use of this technique to obtain bodies of high porosity is feasible; however, more detailed studies of sintering are necessary to obtain parts after firing in a close future. Due to the high porosity obtained the green, a detailed study of the sintering conditions is crucial to obtain parts with physical integrity.
Development of α-Al2O3  Ceramics for Bottom of Sintering Impeller Furnace
Authors: Barreto Carneiro Marcio , Mancic L. , Santos Claudinei , Marinkovic Bojan A.
Published: November 2016

In this work, the processing of α-Al2O3 ceramics is studied in order to attain the microstructure and mechanical and thermal properties suitable for its application as a special refractory material in sintering furnaces. Samples of a commercial powder with addition of 3% polyvinyl alcohol, a binder additive, was compacted by uniaxial cold pressing and sintered in air at 1500 oC. The effects of powder preparation conditions and the consolidation process on density, thermal expansion and conductivity, hardness, flexural strength and microstructure were analyzed. Ceramics with densities of approximately 90% were obtained, with an average hardness of 14.9 ± 0.6 GPa, characteristic strength of 238 MPa and Weibull modulus of 8. The microstructure had grain sizes between 1 and 2 μm. Processing and powder consolidation and sintering parameters resulted in alumina ceramic with suitable properties for its intended purpose.
Application of Satellite Remote Sensing Data during OATRC 2015 Research Expedition
Authors: Matskevitch Dmitri , Løset Sveinung , Shafrova Svetlana , Mitchel Douglas , Holub Curtis
Published: November 2016

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), in collaboration with the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat (SPRS), conducted the "Oden Arctic Technology Research Cruise" (OATRC2015) in the autumn of 2015. The ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company (EMURC) supported and participated in OATRC2015, as further described in a 2016 ATC companion paper by Lubbad et al. (2016).

The main objectives of OATRC2015 expedition, conducted in the Arctic Ocean North of Svalbard, included collection of full-scale data for modelling floaters in ice and collection of full-scale data for modelling ice management operations. Amongst other research, satellite remote sensing technology was used extensively to support the ice management objectives: (1) preparation for the expedition and site selection; (2) monitoring of ice conditions and results of the trials during the expedition; (3) and ice monitoring in the trials area after the expedition. Both publically and commercially available satellite data were acquired and analyzed.

The paper discusses the role and the importance of satellite remote sensing data in organizing and executing the ice management research as well as challenges associated with satellite data acquisition, interpretation and timely delivery to the vessels operating at 82°N.

The satellite data used at different stages of OATRC2015 expedition covers a wide spectrum ranging from ultra-high resolution images (e.g. WorldView 3 optical satellite imagery with 30 cm resolution and CosmoSkyMed X-band radar satellite imagery with 1 m resolution) to publically available low-resolution AQUA/TERRA MODIS optical satellite imagery with 250 m resolution and 50m resolution Sentinel-1 C-band radar imagery. Approximately 230 satellite images were acquired and analyzed in support of OATRC2015.
A Study of the Ethnotechnology of Indigenous Craft in Arctic and Sub-Arctic Waters of North America
Authors: Noble Peter G.
Published: November 2016

The design and construction of water-borne craft using "scientific" methods is a relatively recent development in the context of the whole history of humankind, and is by no means universally applied even today. Many traditional craft in current service still rely on the process akin to Darwin's natural selection concept.

And the evolutionary process continues from Madagascar outrigger fishing canoes to Bangkok water taxis with "long-tail" propulsion systems, and from Haitian fishing boats with high performance new sails built from poly-tarp material to whaling umiaks in NW Alaska covered with tensioned membrane skins made from walrus hide and equipped with outboard motors.

There can be value in studying the design, construction and operational approaches of these craft, which can lead to insights for the modern naval architect. Lessons such as optimizing weight/strength ratios, minimizing resistance, utilizing materials in clever ways, developing repairable structures etc., can all be learned from the study of indigenous craft.

The indigenous peoples living above of the tree line on the North American continent exist in an environment where much of what is required to survive and thrive comes from the sea. This paper will specifically describe the development of skin- covered craft for use to support of the life-styles of the peoples of Arctic and Sub-Arctic North America in Alaska, Canada and Greenland.
Special Oversight Measures for Deepwater and Critical Wells in Harsh Environments
Authors: Conway M.
Published: November 2016

As a result of the Deepwater Horizon disaster and Macondo well blowout, the Canada-Newfoundland & Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB) identified the need to establish Special Oversight Measures for deepwater wells. The Special Oversight Measures were implemented in response to the heightened concerns regarding offshore drilling risks, and to have extra visibility of Operator efforts in applying the lessons learned from the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the C-NLOPB jurisdiction. The application of the C-NLOPB's Special Oversight Measures has since evolved to include higher risk drilling programs such as high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) wells, ultra-deepwater wells, and harsh environment drilling where there is increased potential for a well control incident to occur.

The C-NLOPB's Special Oversight Measures are an initiative that has significantly increased the rigour with which drilling in extreme offshore conditions is regulated in Eastern Canada. The Canada Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board (CNSOPB) has also adopted these special measures to aid in their oversight of deepwater drilling programs. These initiatives have also been presented to North Sea regulatory working groups to communicate success and advancement in this area. There are a tremendous number of parallels between drilling in the harsh environment of offshore Newfoundland and Labrador and arctic regions worldwide. The C-NLOPB's Special Oversight Measures are being shared with the aim of collaboratively establishing a heightened regulatory expectation on the stringent application of best practices for high risk drilling campaigns in Canada and worldwide.
Subsea Risk Update Using High Resolution Iceberg Profiles
Authors: King Tony , Younan Adel , Richard Martin , Bruce Jon , Fuglem Mark , Phillips Ryan
Published: November 2016

The current practice for protecting wellheads and associated subsea facilities from icebergs on the Grand Banks is an Excavated Drill Centre (EDC), which is simply an excavation in the seabed in which wellheads and associated facilities are placed. Free-floating icebergs simply drift over an EDC, with the exception of those that roll as they pass over an EDC and increase draft sufficiently to enter. The risk from gouging icebergs entering an EDC is a function of the clearance between the surrounding undisturbed seabed and the top of the facilities in the EDC, and the distribution of gouging iceberg keel penetration depths. A field program conducted in Bonavista Bay in 2015 was used to estimate iceberg rolling rates, and an analysis of high resolution iceberg profile data collected in 2012 was used to determine the associated distribution of iceberg draft changes that occur due to rolling, and thus the rate at which iceberg keels penetrate an EDC due to rolling events. Modeled iceberg grounding rates and iceberg scour data from the Jeanne d’Arc were used to estimate the rate at which gouging icebergs enter EDCs. Iceberg gouge data from the Jeanne d’Arc and a dynamic time-step iceberg simulation using the 2012 iceberg profile data were used to determine the impact rate for facilities in the EDC as a function of the distance between the midline and the top of the facilities (clearance). The analysis addresses some of the conservatisms in the current approach, allowing for reduced EDC excavation depths.
Shore Approaches for Fiber Optics Cable in Arctic Conditions
Authors: Webb Brian Butch , Casey Zachary , Casey R. T. , Chasse Bel
Published: November 2016

A communications company is installing a subsea fiber optics cable from Europe to Asia around North America through the Beaufort and Bering Seas. At various points along the main line branching units are installed to allow for branch legs to be laid to various villages along the coastline of Alaska. These branch legs will provide vital telecommunication service to remote communities and businesses. The villages include Nome, Kotzebue, Point Hope, Wainwright, Barrow and Oliktok Point (Purdhoe Bay). This paper will present the many problems and solutions associated with shore approaches in Arctic conditions.
Ice Model Tests for Dynamic Positioning Vessel in Managed Ice
Authors: Wang Jungyong , Sayeed Tanvir , Millan David , Gash Robert , Islam Mohammed , Millan James
Published: November 2016

Stationkeeping in managed ice using dynamic positioning (DP) control system has been an area of great interest over the past few years. The stationkeeping performance of a DP vessel depends on the modelling accuracy of the ice forces, which in turn depends on managed ice field characteristics (floe size, floe thickness, inclusion of brash ice and small ice pieces, ice drift speed and direction) and DP system (gain set-ups). Over the years, many engineers have been using numerical and experimental tools to assess the effect of these parameters. More recently, a comprehensive series of experiments with a 1/40 scaled DP vessel were conducted in various realistic managed ice conditions in the ice tank facility of OCRE-NRC in early 2015.

This paper describes the preparation of managed ice field, the procedure of the model tests and the methodologies of data analysis. The physical and mechanical characteristics of the ice field were modelled by controlling ice concentration, ice thickness, floe size, ice strength and ice drift speed/direction. The ice concentration ranged from light condition (6/10th) to very heavy condition (9/10th+) with three different floe sizes (100m, 50m and 25 m). Three different ice thicknesses (0.6m, 1.2m and 2m) were used and three different drift speeds (0.2 kts, 0.5 kts, and 1.2 kts) with various heading angles were tested. Some tests used high strength model ice in order to keep the ice field longer (sometimes for 2nd day). Some tests used properly scaled model ice (700 kPa of flexural strength in full scale) in order to simulate ice failure appropriately. Ice loads were not directly measured but estimated based on the thrusters’ response. Video analysis is introduced and some observations are described. Test results for a few cases are presented as an example.
A Novel Jack-up Concept for Arctic Drilling
Authors: van Kuilenburg Robert , van der Hoorn Jos
Published: November 2016

Noble Drilling, Gusto-MSC, client and selected 3rd party vendors teamed up to design a self-propelled jack-up rig specific for Arctic Operations. The rig design is based on the concept of "mission", fully integrating the rig into the logistical, environmental and operational aspects of the overall project. As a result, the rig design takes significant lower cost to build, operate and maintain while still maintaining the capabilities to complete the tasks required.

The paper will provide details on the rig performance, environmental compliance and loading capacity. Specific attention will be given to reduction of crew, fully enclosed rig design possibilities and safety of operations.

The paper will furthermore discuss the earning capacity of the rig: the rig can be employed all year, working in the Arctic theatre during summer and autumn (the Arctic open water and initial freeze-up season), while drilling in other areas around the world during winter and spring. Thanks to its self-propelled concept, the unit can transit between such distant areas at high speed and be self-installing upon arrival made possible by its DP-2 capability. Therefore the unit requires no assistance from other vessels. This is augmented by the high loading capacity of the unit, comprising a full drilling program of pipes and casings as well as fuel storage, thus requiring no or very limited re-supplies during drilling of a well.

The paper will thus demonstrate that the combination of reduced capital & operational costs, engaging all stakeholders early in the design plus a high earning capacity provides a ground breaking step in cost effective drilling operations in the Arctic and other parts of the world.
Predicting the Timing and Duration of Arctic Sea Ice and Its Implications on Future Drilling Seasons in the Chukchi Sea and Beaufort Sea
Authors: Hasling Jill F.
Published: November 2016

During 2007, the Arctic lost a record amount of ice and became "Open" when the Northwest Passage became more navigable earlier and later in the season. Another record "Open Arctic" occurred in the summer 2012, and the area of Arctic ice extent appears to be on a decline. Events like this sparked an interest in what effects an Open Arctic would have on specific drilling areas in the Chukchi Sea and the Beaufort Sea.

The ice extent in the last 10 years has been below the 1981-2010 average. This data can be used to forecast the length of future drilling seasons. A sample drilling location was selected in the Chukchi Sea and the Beaufort Sea. For each location, predicted dates for the Marginal Ice Zone [MIZ] to retreat and return in 2014 and in 2015 were made. The actual observed dates were recorded. Based on the MIZ retreat and return dates for locations in the Chukchi Sea and the Beaufort Sea, predictions are given for the length of the drilling seasons for 2016 and 2017. Since 2005, the below average monthly sea ice extent indicates the continued decline of the Arctic ice extent. The impact of an Open Arctic for the drilling season will be discussed. The drilling season will be defined as the date when the MIZ retreats by a radius of 100 nautical miles from the drilling locations.

An Open Arctic scenario could also lead to an increasing number of storms over the drilling locations, and the possibility these storms produce higher waves is considered. The comparison of the daily significant waves from the European Reanalysis Data was reviewed to determine the impact on the drilling locations in the Chukchi Sea and Beaufort Sea. The assumption was made that when the waves are near zero, ice is near the locations. The impact of sea ice on waves is critical to Open Arctic operations, and this type of research can help plan for future Arctic drilling locations.
Validation of ICEYE Small Satellite SAR Design for Ice Detection and Imaging
Authors: Laurila Pekka , Modrzewski Rafal , Cheng Tao , Campbell Brad , Yanni Victor Garas
Published: November 2016

In 2015, ICEYE, a Finnish radar satellite company, with support by ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company, executed a series of field tests to assess the technical feasibility of using ICEYE's newly-designed Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) instrument for small ice feature detection in open water and pack ice imaging. The project consisted of three separate flight campaigns. The first campaign included calibration flights flown in Helsinki in March. The second campaign was performed in April, over sea ice in the Gulf of Bothnia. The third flight campaign, conducted in November, measured the performance of the instrument in weather.

In addition to validation of the designed SAR system, the main objective of the project was to obtain imagery of small ice features with the ICEYE prototype instrument. The analysis focused on the capability of the proposed SAR to detect small but potentially hazardous ice features. Two instrument configurations were used: a linear polarized antenna in VV configuration, and a circular cross-polarized antenna configuration. The reason for using a circular cross-polarized configuration in the SAR is that potential rain clutter can be reduced by suppressing odd-numbered reflections.

Test results from the ice measurement campaign showed that the linear VV configuration is sufficient for detecting features as small as 10 meters in waterline extension. On the other hand, small ice feature detection performance of the circular cross-polarized configuration was poor at transmitted power levels scaled to match the satellite case. Results also showed that sea state and target feature roughness play a significant role in detecting small features.

The third campaign was performed to understand whether rain clutter would affect the image quality with VV configuration, and whether such effects can be mitigated by a circular cross-polarized configuration. However, during the test period, only light to moderate rain conditions were encountered. In these conditions, the VV configuration suffered no rain clutter in levels affecting ice detection performance. A theoretical study concluded that in order for the rain clutter to interfere with imaging, the rain event must exceed levels that are extremely rare in arctic areas.

The flight test demonstrates that the ICEYE SAR data is valuable for ice management use. Once deployed in a constellation of small satellites, the resulting near-real time service can provide better situational awareness for potential operations in the Arctic.
Baffin Island Deep Water Arctic Port
Authors: Watters G.
Published: November 2016

Located 500 km north of the Arctic Circle, the massive Mary River Iron mine project required an operating ore dock to annually ship 3.5 million tonnes of iron ore to world markets. The high latitude Arctic ore dock loaded its first bulk carrier on August 8, 2015 from the its record breaking −17.75 m deep water berth. The project was executed by a design-build team selected by the owner after it became apparent the traditional design-bid-build method could not achieve schedule and budget objectives. Major challenges facing the design-build team included −35 degree celcius temperatures, 24- hour darkness, remote logistics, compressed schedule and varying geotechnical site conditions. To minimize risk in this challenging environment, the design-build team redesigned most of the project with a major focus on modularization of components in the south and utilization of a land-based construction methods rather than reliance on a fleet of marine equipment.
Updating the Iceberg Load Software Using High Resolution Iceberg Profiles
Authors: Stuckey Paul , Younan Adel , Parr Grant , Fuglem Mark , Habib Kashfi
Published: November 2016

Icebergs can pose a risk to offshore oil and gas structures in arctic and sub-arctic regions of the world. The Iceberg Load Software (ILS) was developed to determine design loads on structures following the spirit of ISO 19906:2010, helping designers better understand the impact forces and moments the structures must be designed to withstand. The ILS is a fully probabilistic model which accounts for the range of iceberg shapes, sizes and strengths, and environmental conditions expected at the platform location. The model is applicable to fixed structures such as a gravity based structure (GBS), as well as floating structures such as a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel. Users can incorporate the effectiveness of iceberg detection, physical management, and disconnection (where applicable for floating platforms) in mitigating the risk of impact with an iceberg.

The input relationships and distributions used to characterize the iceberg population are based on measured data typically collected in the region. These data include everything from basic measurements such as iceberg length, width or sail height to the more detailed shape information in the form of complete three dimensional iceberg profiles. In 2012, a major field program was carried out (Younan et al. 2016) with the objective of collecting high resolution iceberg profiles to improve the modelling of iceberg shape. Above water shapes were captured using a photogrammetry technique and were merged with below water shapes collected using multibeam sonar. The end product was a database of 28 high resolution iceberg profiles providing considerable information on iceberg shape.

The objective of this study was to use the high resolution iceberg profiles to update models characterizing iceberg shape in the ILS. These includes models for area-penetration, contact location and impact eccentricity. In addition, relationships correlating iceberg draft and mass to waterline length were updated using the new profiles. Example simulations were performed for a generic structure using the ILS to demonstrate the influence of the updated models, distributions and relationships on the output design forces and moments.
Gastric Schwannoma: A Case Report
Authors: Romdhane Hayfa , Cheikh Myriam , Mzoughi Zeineb , Ben Slama Sana , Ennaifer Rym , Belhadj Najet
Published: November 2016

Schwannomas are generally benign, slow growing tumors. They are rarely observed in the gastrointestinal tract with the most common site being the stomach. These tumors are usually asymptomatic. The preoperative diagnosis via endoscopy is a challenging issue due to the difficulty of differentiation from other submucosal tumors. A 54-year-old woman presented with epigastric pain persisting for the last 10 months. Upper endoscopy revealed an elevated submucosal mass of the gastric antrum. The overlying mucosa was normal. Biopsy specimens yielded only unspecific signs of mild inactive chronic inflammation. Endoscopic ultrasound examination noted a hypoechoic homogeneous mass lesion located in the gastric antrum. The mass appeared to arise from the muscularis propria, and there was no perigastric lymphadenopathy. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan identified a homogeneous round mass and arising from the antrum of the stomach. Submucosal tumor was suspected and surgical intervention was recommended. The patient underwent an elective laparoscopic partial gastrectomy. The histopathologic features and immunohistochemical-staining pattern were consistent with a benign gastric schwannoma. Our patient shows no recurrence with a follow-up of one year. The definitive diagnosis of gastric schwannomas requires immunohistochemical studies. Complete margin negative surgical resection, as in this case, is the curative treatment of choice. The clinical course is generally benign.
Erythrodermic psoriasis treated with apremilast
Authors: Arcilla John , Joe Daniel , Kim Johnathan , Kim Yohanan , Truong VuAnh N. , Jaipaul Navin
Published: November 2016

Erythroderma is a rare potentially deadly exfoliative dermatitis characterized by diffuse cutaneous erythema which may be associated with multi-organ dysfunction. Therefore, it is imperative to recognize and treat it promptly. Erythrodermic psoriasis is the most common form of erythroderma. Management of this condition is largely based on aggressive supportive care and the use of anti-inflammatory immunosuppressive and biologic agents. We describe a case of psoriatic erythroderma which was triggered by withdrawal from systemic steroids and successfully treated with apremilast and cyclosporine. Apremilast induced atrial fibrillation limited its continued use after the initial response period.
A study on cross-talk nerve stimulation: electrode placement and current leakage lid
Authors: Julémont Nicolas , Nonclercq Antoine , Delchambre Alain , Vanhoestenberghe Anne
Published: November 2016

Cross-talk phenomena should be avoided when stimulating nerves. One option to limit the current spread is to use tripolar electrodes, but at the cost of increasing the number of wires connection. This should be avoided since cables must be thin and compliant. We investigated the impact of the central electrode position and of current spread due to a gap between book and lid on cross-talk, in a set of tripolar or quasi-tripolar configurations.