bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methods and Devices for Determination of Gas-Kick Parameters and Prevention of Well Explosion
Authors: Tseytlin Simon
Published: October 2013

The presented acoustic methods and devices are intended for early detection and determining parameters of the gaseous packet (gas kick) rising in the annulus of the well during a gas blowout. The action of the tool is based on the comparison of pressure pulses generated in the mud by the mud pump using dynamic pressure sensors located in the annulus above the blowout preventer and in the high-pressure line. When the output signal decreases to the pre-specified level corresponding to the danger of blowout, the drilling is stopped and a pressure pulse is generated in the annulus; the location, velocity, size and arrival time of the gaseous packet is determined using the arrival time of the reflected signals. The information obtained this way is used for making a decision whether to resume drilling or to take measures to suppress gas entry into the borehole. The tool also makes it possible to detect free-phase highly dissolved gas entering the annulus at the saturation pressure; such gas is especially dangerous when formations saturated with hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide are penetrated. The tool is recommended to be incorporated in well-logging units, MWD systems and also as a stand-alone tool among the other instruments used at the well site. The tool makes it possible not only to ensure safety during drilling, but also to facilitate the introduction of the state-of-the-art drilling technologies based on reduction of the bottom-hole differential pressure.
Comparative Evaluation of a Heterogeneous Light Oil Reservoir Performance: Thermal IOR Simulation, Bitumen Extraction, and Associated Geomechanical Deformation
Authors: Al-Mudhafer Wathiq J. , Zein Al-Abideen Mohammed J.
Published: October 2013

A Steamflooding study has been doing to extract the bitumen and improve oil recovery in a heterogeneous light oil reservoir of South Rumaila oil field. It has been investigated also that Steamflooding is an effective way to handle the formation’s heterogeneity by decrease the degree of fluid spread and distortion. It has been considered the design of experiments methodology and streamlines-based simulation to study the most sensitive factors affecting the cumulative oil production response and also to determine the optimal future reservoir performance. This paper is an extension work of the papers (SPE 165345 & SPE 165935) to evaluate the Geomechanical deformation associated with the production processes through steamflooding and water injection scenarios. The reservoir under study is a sandstone formation in South Rumaila oil field located in Iraq. This field, with a 59-year production history, has 40 production wells and is surrounded by an infinite active edge water aquifer from the east and the west flanks. Because of some discontinuous series of bitumen at the east flank, the strength of east flank is much effective less than the west one. In this study, a comparative thermodynamic simulation study has been conducted to show the feasibility of Steamflooding to extract the bitumen and improve oil recovery and to determine the optimal future development scenario in addition to locally estimating the associated reservoir deformation due to steamflooding processes and the base case of water injection.

In this paper, the black oil & thermodynamic reservoir simulator have been used to evaluate the reservoir performance through the base case and steamflooding scenarios, respectively. Later, full factorial design and streamlines-based simulation have been conducted to figure out the most factors affecting the response (recovery factor) through Steamflooding with distinct levels. The factors are steam injection rate, quality, temperature, and number of steam injectors.

Finally, as the oil produced for long time, the pore pressure would decrease with increasing the effective stress leading to reservoir compaction and vertical surface subsidence. Therefore, the expedition in production due to IOR/EOR methods should enhance the reservoir subsidence leading to serious problems in surface facilities setting. Therefore, the two models have been adopted to estimate the reservoir subsidence through steamflooding and base case, respectively.

By the end of 1 Feb. 2022, the results demonstrated that reservoir subsidence at the base case without steamflooding reached to approximately 10 ft as average at the crest of the reservoir. However, the reservoir subsidence after considering the steamflooding to the same date is more than 12 ft at the reservoir crest. However, The current subsidence for this reservoir in the current time after 59 years of predict is approximately two ft. at the crest.
Application of 3S-Technology for the Natural Gas Processing under Arctic Conditions
Authors: Imaev Salavat Z. , Bagirov Lev A. , Voytenkov Evgeny V.
Published: October 2013

SuperSonic gas Separation technology (3S-technology) was designed to prepare the gas for transportation and to extract different fractions from gas, such as hydrocarbon condensate, propane-butane and ethane. The technology is based on cooling of swirling gas in supersonic Laval nozzle. Due to the implementation of high speed in the nozzle, the temperature of gas can be reduced by 70°C and more, thus ensure conditions needed for condensation and separation of heavy fractions contained in gas. A device, realizes this process, is called "3S-separator". It comprises a stationary swirl body, a supersonic nozzle and a diffuser with selection of condensed fluid.

It has been proved that usage of 3S-separators instead of Joule-Thomson valves makes it possible to ensure higher operating efficiency of associated gas processing devices in any parameters. And it can reduce dew points of water and hydrocarbons of a tank gas and increase the amount of gas recoverable from unstable condensate.

3S-separators make it possible to extract target components from natural gas in wide gas input pressure range from 1.0 MPa to 16 MPa. To ensure the optimum gas temperature at 3S-separators inlet recuperative heat exchangers should be used.

At present 3S-technology is successfully used by several industrial plants in Russia ("Rosneft" JSC, "Gazprom" JSC) and abroad (PetroChina Company Ltd.). The use of this technology in subsea processing plants will enable to carry out gas conditioning in accord with sales gas qualifying standards. Thus, as opposed to currently existing gas cooling technologies, based on using of expansion turbines and refrigerator sets, 3S-technology makes it possible to ensure high equipment reliability and enables to install equipment on the seabed. The more promising area – is use of 3S-technology in projects of getting a high pressure (100 and more atmospheres) sales gas. It is impossible to use conventional gas cooling technologies, because of supercritical conditions of natural gas, under which gas additives condensation is not possible at any temperatures. By ensuring high-speed gas flows in supersonic nozzles, there could be a condensation and separation of natural gas target fractions in 3S-separators, even in a high gas pressure conditions.
Engineering Approach to Solving Problems of Flooding of Low-Permeability Compartmentalized Reservoirs
Authors: Yudin Evgeniy , Lubnin Alexander
Published: October 2013

In this paper authors propose an approach to the identification and predicting the waterflooding efficiency. The method is based on the simplified analytical model of the well performance in the waterflood pattern. This model allows us to calculate well productivity in waterflood pattern in all regimes (transient, pseudo-steady, steady) and carry out various practical calculations to determine the efficiency of reservoir-pressure maintenance. The paper presents examples of the described approach application.
Complex Modeling and Efficiency Evaluation of Free Gas Breakthrough Isolation Efficiency with Foaming Systems in Conditions of Oil Rim Drainage at Caspian Sea Shelf
Authors: Mosesyan A. A. , Simakov Y. O.
Published: October 2013

This paper is a description of the main stages of research work for determining the cause of high gas-oil ratio on the Yu. Korchagin field, as well as developing recommendations for gas breakthrough isolation.

As the main tool to determine the causes of premature gas breakthrough and to assess the effectiveness of isolations, the reservoir model (hereinafter RM) was used. To obtain initial data to specify the actual model, preliminary work was carried out to analyze and interpret the entire spectrum of studies conducted in the field. Well tests allowed to determine the energy state and filtration-capacity characteristics of the well bottom-hole zones; downhole logging data – refine gas influx profile through the perforation intervals; laboratory studies of fluids and cores were used to create EOS fluid model.

All the results obtained were included into the RM. Then the RM was history matched. During the matching and sensitivity analysis of the model to gas-oil ratio, all sources of gas breakthrough in wells were distinguished. Growth of the gas-oil ratio was largely the result of breakthrough from overlying horizon and gas cap cone formation. To a lesser degree the high gas-oil ratio values caused by oil degassing process in a wellbore.

The main recommendation to reduce gas inflow in the upper perforation intervals was to inject a water soluble surfactant (foam). Foam obtained at formation conditions reduces gas mobility and surface tension at the phase interface, thus allowing to achieve the gas influx blocking.

Lack of domestic experience for such operations was compensated by the experience from the Norwegian continental shelf. Projects at Snorre and Oseberg provided data about specific surfactants, their properties and behavior in the reservoir. These data allowed to focus on selecting a specific surfactant and include its PVT properties into the model. Since the conditions in the Caspian Sea shelf are distinct from the North Sea, additional laboratory studies at "LUKOIL-VolgogradNIPImorneft" were conducted on field core samples for oil displacement in presence of selected surfactant. The data obtained was incorporated into the foam model.

History matched RM allowed to make justified estimation of different options for foam treatment at each well. The obtained results allowed to select optimal scenario for each well, specific recommendations were formulated according to it.

The obtained results allowed to the conclude on effectiveness of integrated approach to modeling, where the RM with all relevant information about the field plays a crucial role at every work stage – from determining the causes to making recommendations to prevent them.

According to the research results, LUKOIL-Nizhnevolzhskneft approved a foam treatment pilot program in one of the wells of Yu. Korchagin field.
Justifying the Optimal Length of Horizontal Wells by the Results of Multiple Flow Simulation Runs
Authors: Levanov A. N. , Silvestrov S. I. , Ustyugova E. V. , Pospelova T. A.
Published: October 2013

A case study of one of the reservoirs of X Field, Greenfield (Russia, Krasnoyarsk Territory, Rosneft OC) considered the approaches applied to determine the optimal length of a horizontal well (HW) on a flow simulation model. In particular, the flow simulation model includes the results of well logging – production log in comparison with permeability, indicating a mismatch between volumes of interval fluid inflow into the well and permeability values of the interval.

The differences of the results of the work previously performed involve the fact that a standard procedure to determine the NPV (net present value) of the project was applied, which is included into field development plans (FDP), supplemented by indicators that take into account higher well drilling costs with increasing of a horizontal part and changes in the liquid inflow intensity per unit length of a horizontal wellbore. The outcome of the study was the creation of a method to determine the optimal length of a HW using flow simulation.

The value of the work involves a more confident prediction of oil recovery levels for horizontal wells and, as a result, the amounts of investment required in case of low reservoir knowledge.
Experience of Using Water Cut Meters at Samotlor and Verkhnechonskoe Fields
Authors: Klimentyev A. G. , Dubovitskiy S. A. , Sharapov E. A. , Shevchenko S. D. , Zubakin A. A. , Minchenko D. A. , Otylov E. A. , Muravyev A. V.
Published: October 2013

As the operation process moves on to the advanced stages of field development, the increase in water cut is observed; that makes it necessary to apply technologies to reduce water onset. Timely prevention of problems associated with water onset is possible due to equipment ensuring continuous monitoring and high accuracy of measured values. Modern water-cut meters based on near-infrared absorption spectroscopy can distinguish oil, water, natural gas, and gas-hydrate inhibitors such as methanol.

Field testing of water-cut meters was performed by Samotlorneftegaz OJSC and Verkhnechonskneftegaz OJSC.

Water-cut metes were mounted into Group Measuring Stations (GMS); the readings were displayed on the upper level of Automatic Process Control system of the company what enabled real time water-cut monitoring. Measurement accuracy was evaluated by means of comparative testing with the laboratory testing results of oil well fluid samples. To ensure stable accurate performance of the water-cut meter within the rated tolerances and ability to compare the measured values with the laboratory sample test results, it is important to maintain turbulent flow conditions: vertical velocity of min. 0.6 m/s, and horizontal velocity of 1.2 m/s. It will ensure adequate mixing. Besides, other methodological aspects are important, such as mutual alignment of the water-cut meter and sampling port, sampling frequency, mixer availability, group measuring station operating mode, etc.

The economic effect of high-quality dynamic water-cut measurements (taking into account synergetic effect of other technologies) is achieved due to various factors: fewer inefficient well interventions; improving of decision-making; timely prevention of water onset; reduction of operational costs for manual sampling and laboratory analysis; incremental oil production by eliminating of premature well conversion to non-commercial stock due to poor quality measurements, and improved safety.
Non-Regular Well Placement Optimization
Authors: Ermolaev Alexander , Kuvichko Alexander
Published: October 2013

This paper covers few mathematical aspects of well location and related optimization problems. This problem is of great importance and covered by many authors. Some related studies are described in the paper. Current study formulates these problems in terms or integer programming. Optimal solutions formulate initial sets of cases and improve the efficiency of oil and gas recovery. Considered integer programming problems are extremely large-scale problems. The matrix structure, the number of feasible solutions, etc. have been taken into account. A new fast algorithm for the generalized non-square assignment (transportation) problem has been designed. It is reasonable to use the approach studied in this paper to design a set of appropriate initial cases for the small fields or fields with a complex geology. Presented workflow finds optimal well positions for a field or its part. A Brugge field has been taken as a test case. An improvement of production and NPV achieved the comparison between an initial and an optimal case presented.
Seismic Challenges and Structural Solutions on the Berkut Platform
Authors: Slatnick S. C. , Fenz D. M. , Sheppard R. E. , Turner J. W.
Published: October 2013

This paper describes the methodology and technical solutions employed to address earthquake loading challenges on the Berkut topsides, including design and operational considerations. The Berkut platform is part of the Sakhalin-I development in offshore Russia, which is located in an area of high seismicity. Offshore platforms in the region require highly specialized designs to balance the competing requirements resulting from earthquake, wave and ice loading. Design strategies used in the region to protect structures from earthquakes include a tuned mass damper to protect the drilling derrick on the Orlan platform and Friction Pendulum seismic isolation on the Lunskoye-A and Piltun-Astokhskoye-B platforms.

The Berkut structure consists of a four-shaft gravity based structure (GBS) with a topsides operating weight of approximately 50,000 tonnes. Seismic isolation devices called Friction Pendulum Bearings (FPBs) are placed between the GBS shafts and the topsides to reduce horizontal load transfer and accelerations. A performance-based design approach was developed to derive load and resistance factors providing a specified probability of non-performance (2% in 50 years with a minimum 90% level of confidence). This approach, which can be applied to a broad range of extreme environmental design criteria, enabled the seismic design for Berkut to be completed with a more consistent level of reliability than would have been achieved using traditional methods. Seismic analyses were carried out using nonlinear time history analyses of a fully coupled analytical model containing topsides, GBS and soil. This was complemented by finite element analysis for local design.

A seismic event of smaller magnitude than the design event can impact production unless Operations personnel can confirm that no safety-critical components have been compromised by earthquake loading. A custom structural monitoring system has been configured to monitor accelerations and FPB displacements; and an earthquake-response strategy has been implemented to enable Operations personnel to make prudent decisions following an event.
Assessment of geomechanical concept for natural and manmade fractures in bazhenov and tyumenskoe formations using an example of study in Em-Yoga field Krasnoleninsky arch West Siberia
Authors: Platunov A.. , Martynov M.. , Nikolaev M.. , Leskin F.. , Davidenko I..
Published: October 2013

This paper is based on study of formations in Bazhenov and Tyumenskoe horizons of Em-Yoga field Krasnoleninsky arch West Siberia with the aim of defining the geomechanical concepts of studied area. Hydrocarbon production from Bazhenov and Tyumenskoe formations in West Siberia is actually established through number of pilot wells with production testing. Economic profitability of producing wells depends on the efficiency of hydraulic fracturing in cases where the technology is predefined by reservoir development project. This article describes the principles and prerequisites of hydraulic fracturing mechanics under geomechanical conditions of the studied rocks.

Tyumenskoe and Bazhenov formations are dated to Upper and Middle Jurassic geological time. Geological depositional environment and posterior transformations in time have created specific conditions for rock geomechanics. Rock mechanics in studied formations practically predetermines the concept of how rock is fractured. This work presumes basis for typification and description of fractures occurred naturally and created as a result of hydraulic fracturing and how those interfere with each other.

This work is stand on the accumulated results of the ongoing study and actual data from producing wells in Em-Yoga field Krasnoleninsky arch West Siberia. The Jurassic rocks studied in this article are stratigraphically divided into formations of Tyumenskoe, Abalak and Bazhenov horizons. Enacted stratigraphic cross-sectional classification describes the formations of Tyumenskoe horizon as porous rock, Abalak horizon as cavernous-porous naturally fractured and Bazhenov as naturally fractured and micro-porous types of rock.
Extended Reach Exploratory well Successfully Drilled on D-41 Structure of Baltic Sea Shelf (Russian Sector)
Authors: Andrianov Vyacheslav , Solovyanchik Vasily , Aleshkov Valery , Akhmetov Marat , Kostin Sergey , Mazaev Konstantin
Published: October 2013

This paper describes some of the major issues around drilling world class ERD well in the Baltic Sea by a team of industry professionals from Lukoil, Schlumberger and Eurasia Drilling Company (BKE). The ultimate goal of the well construction organization was to deliver quality well under budget and within schedule with zero environmental impact.

A challenging well was successfully drilled to explore Cambrian production zone in D-41 structure. Key contributing factors to this success were: –solid preliminary analysis,–understanding of well bore stability by real time geomechanical modeling,–comprehensive directional analysis,–revised casing design,–application of latest drilling technologies,–creation of multi-discipline team with common goals.
Computer Simulation of the Least Energy Consuming and Emergency-Free Regimes of Drilling of Hyper Deep Curvilinear Bore-Holes
Authors: Gulyayev V. I. , Andrusenko E. N. , Shlyun N. V.
Published: October 2013

The problem of computer simulation of mechanical behavior of drill strings in hyper deep vertical, inclined and horizontal bore-holes is stated with the aim of forecasting the possible initiation of emergency situations during carrying out drilling operations. The question of stability and post-critical non-linear deforming and dynamics of the drill strings are considered. It is shown that all of them are singularly perturbed from the mathematical point of view and because of this, they are poorly amenable to theoretical (computational) analysis. The algorithms allowing surmounting these difficulties are proposed.

The software for study of these phenomena is elaborated.

In the stages of design of an elongated curvilinear bore-hole with complicated 3D geometry and technological regimes of their drivage, the elaborated software permits one to construct its trajectory securing the smallest values of resistance forces and to choose the least energy-consuming and safe regimes of drilling. It ensures also the possibility to determine the requirements for the necessary accuracy of the bore-hole drivage and for the acceptable geometrical distortions and imperfections.

In the stage of the bore-hole drivage, the created software permits to calculate forces and moments of resistance forces with allowance made for the real geometry of the bore-hole and admitted distortion of its axial line. It is possible to prognosticate possible emergency situations and design the measures for their exclusion.

At the stage of the emergency situation liquidation, this software allows to simulate the mechanical behavior of the system and its responses to the methods used for elimination of the failure consequences.
Some Specific of Physical, Strength and Deformation Characteristics of Cooled Soils of Pechora and Kara Seas
Authors: Kulikov S.. , Arushanyan L..
Published: October 2013

The development of the Arctic shelf provides new tasks to investigators that relate to local site surveys as well as specific type of engineering structuresfor developing a more financially beneficial and safe design solutions. But in both cases, primarily safety of people is important at all stages of construction from the beginning to the end of facility exploitation.

An integrated approach to investigations allows an engineer to see the complete picture of climate and geological conditions of an area of investigation, which allows developing a more accurate design decisions. Unfortunately presently more and more projects are splittedinto smaller objects or even different kinds of work. Now it often happens when one organization performs remote geophysical methods, another processes drilling and other geotechnical engineering, a third one just laboratory tests.

This approach typically leads to situation when geophysicists cannot or difficult to definegeological horizons and reflectors without real soil section knowledge, as well as obtained in laboratory soil strength properties do not allow to provide design decision for contraction installation. As a result, it can be found out that the site is not suitable, when integrated approach and data could define all negative aspects at offshore stage and applicable site could be determined directly in the field with performance of some necessary details, etc. Therefore our company supplies fully the integration approach in surveys that allows developing a safe design solution and economically favorable terms.
Investigations of Coastal Erosion Processes in Varandey area, Barents Sea
Authors: Sinitsyn Anatoly , Guegan Emilie , Kokin Osip , Vergun Aleksey , Udalov Leonty , Ogorodov Stanislav
Published: October 2013

Knowledge on coastal processes is required for construction of robust coastal structures in the Arctic. Pechora sector of the Barents Sea is one of key areas for hydrocarbons production in the Arctic region. Description and analysis of erosion processes in coastal zone of Varandey area are presented. Three areas are considered – Pesyakov Island, Varandey Island, and Continental coastal zone of Malozemelskaya Tundra from Peschanka River to Western part of Medynskiy Zavarot Peninsula (further designated as Medynskiy segment). Varandey and Pesyakov Islands have close geomorphological structure, and present marine terraces from fine sand deposits. The former Island is exposed to erosion due to both, human and natural factors, while the erosion of the latter has only be associated to natural actions. Human factor in Varandey Island mainly consists in removal of sand deposits from avandune and intensive traffic of motorized vehicles on the beach and dunes. Natural factors of erosion on these islands are related to wave action, the deficiency of coarse-grained beach-forming material, the poorly developed profile of submarine coastal slope, and the high gradient of the avandune slopes. One can assess the human factor in erosion processes by comparison of erosion in these two areas. Medynskiy segment is marine terrace composed from dense ice and marine loams and clays. Thermoabrasion plays the main role in coastal erosion here. Techniques of erosion measurements and their results as well as some results of field campaign undertaken in 2012 are presented in the article. Results of preliminary analysis of satellite images from 1961-2012 has confirmed and extended known results on erosion rates in Varandey area obtained from filed surveys conducted between 1987-2012. Results show that erosion on Pesyakov Island was moderate, on Varandey Island – from moderate to rapid, and on Medynskiy segment from moderate to extremely rapid in 1961-2012. Presented results of research can be used as an element for quantitative and qualitative description of erosion over 1961-2012 in Varandey area and are data of primary importance for any further coastal research or coastal engineering designs undertaken in this area.
Influence Assessment Of Suspension Particles Of The Dispersed Near-Bottom Ground On Subsea Pipelines Stability On The Continental Shelf
Authors: Mansurov M.N.. N. , Lapteva T.I.. I.
Published: October 2013

Recently offshore pipelines are under active construction in the Russian Federation. The main advantages are their operating reliability, cost effectiveness, high efficiency and simplicity of operation. Offshore pipelines require differentiated approach to adopted technical and technological decisions depending on the natural and climatic characteristics of the region. Stability plays an important role for reliable and safe operation of offshore pipelines. One of the main conditions for stability is the strict adherence to standards and rules of calculation and design. But the standards cannot include all factors and force impacts to be taken into account. There are only general requirements to calculation and design of pipeline systems. Whereas the technical feasibility of all basic parameters necessary for reliability of offshore pipelines must be chosen and substantiated on early stages of design.

Stability of a pipeline depends on environmental loads and the trench (seabed) profile [1]. When calculating stability it is assumed that pipeline must preserve stable position on the seabed even in maximum possible seabed deformations in places where no soil layer is designed above the pipeline. Where there is no current influencing the trench of pipeline filled with the transported product buoyant force equal to the float displacement will be acting. Float displacement depends on the water-mass density: increase of density results in increase of buoyant force and reduction of pipeline stability on the bottom of the watered trench.

Works for development of hydrocarbon offshore fields (offshore pipeline lay, dumping) lead to concentration of suspended matter that manifold exceeds the natural level (figure 1). Time of existence and extent of suspended matter cloud can be determined by factors, the most significant of which are as follows: method of dredging (implementation of machines - dredging machines, sand suckers, hydraulic monitors, etc.); method and scope of disposal; current speed and depth at the disposal point; granulometric composition of suspended matter.
Heat Flow and Filtration of Seawater in the Coastal Zone of the Arctic Shelf
Authors: Fomin Y.V.. V. , Zhmur V.V.. V. , Marchenko A.V.. V. , Onishchenko D.A.. A.
Published: October 2013

Research sire for the monitoring of heat transfer processes in soils around the pipeline landfall from the shore to sea was organized and equipped in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. The data on soil temperature and pore pressure, sea water temperature and tidal variations of the water level are collected for one year of the measurement. Semi-diurnal variations of soil temperature and pore pressure are discovered in all measurement locations. Vertical and horizontal heat fluxes are calculated using the collected data.
Stability and Strength of the Subsea Pipeline Under Iceberg Load in Arctic
Authors: Papusha Alexander , Kazunin Dmitry , Gontarev Denis , Vasilevich Vasily , Kyalbieva Sevar
Published: October 2013

The article describes a method of investigation the impact of the ice field on the dive sites offshore oil in Arctic. There is an example of the calculation of the durability and steadiness of large diameter offshore (sea) pipeline, laid in the ground with a deep when pairing offshore and onshore areas with the influence of ice formation.

The study shows that even small seas compared to the ocean icebergs ice formation in the Arctic of the Northern Russian lead to loss of steadiness and shape of the steel pipe and lead to the destruction of the outer concrete coating line.

The paper also describes the basic design decisions made with consideration of the impact of ice formations on offshore oil facilities, and provides a map of the waters of the Russian Arctic with zones marked on it with the possible danger to the objects which are under study.

The map was compiled from publicly available data into account AARI, monographs of researchers of Arctic region, as well as the bathymetry.
New OGP Good Practice Guide: Environmental Management in Arctic Oil and Gas Operations
Authors: Sarybekova Lyazzat , Parker James G.
Published: October 2013

The hydrocarbon basins in the Arctic are thought to hold a significant proportion of the world’s remaining undiscovered hydrocarbon reserves. Exploration in the region has been taking place for almost a century, with more that 500 wells drilled offshore and many thousands onshore, and will continue under the licence and invitation from sovereign governments.

Yet there is a growing international interest in the various governance aspects of the Arctic and ever greater appreciation that its natural resources need to be developed with proper regard for the environmental and social settings. In addition to the stringent domestic legislation and international treaties, there are numerous forums for bringing together the policy makers, indigenous people and scientists to develop a common understanding of Arctic matters and ensure that oil and gas exploration in the region is done safely.

The International Oil & Gas Producers Association (OGP), its partners and individual member companies are committed to improving the industry’s performance and have actively contributed to the development of industry standards for protecting

the Arctic environment, both offshore and onshore. Recognising recent advances in design, technology and operational practice, OGP has updated and strengthened its existing guidelines in a consolidated Arctic Environment Good Practice Guide (Arctic GPG or the Guide).

The Guide provides essential information on the oil and gas interests in the Arctic and the challenges faced by operators; it describes the legislative and governance frameworks across the Arctic nations and the role of the peoples of the Arctic; it provides generic descriptions of the physical and biological environment of both onshore and offshore, including the sensitivities to development. It examines potential environmental impacts of oil and gas developments and the mitigation measures that are normally adopted. The Guide is written mostly for Arctic operations, but may include relevant management practices for the use in other similar environments.
Determination of Professional Fitness of Shift Workers in Accordance with The Phase Assessment of Environmental Factors in the Far North
Authors: Korneeva Ya. A. , Simonova N. N. , Degteva G. N.
Published: October 2013

The shift professional activities in the Far North have high requirements for the creation of conditions for successful adaptation. Adaptability of workers directly linked to professional competence, ie a set of qualities, properties, rights that underpin the success of the fitness formation for a particular activity (activity). Extremity shift work due to constant exposure to adverse climatic and geographical factors, the need for constant commuting, so that employees are constantly experiencing periods of "adaptation - the re-adaptation", a high intensity of labor in the rotational period. Thus, because of an implicit zone of uncertainty shift workers in the Far North is possible to form individual style. The results of the research, in shift workers with different experience may be formed by four types of adaptation strategies: differentiated Rush, Rush stereotype, economical and differentiated economical stereotype.

The development of mineral deposits in the Far North and the Arctic is a priority policy of the Russian Federation. [10]

Far North and Arctic regions are characterized by extreme climatic factors and the conditions vital activity (low population density, distance from major industrial centers, high resource intensity of economic activities and livelihoods due to the dependence on the supply of fuel, food and essential commodities from other regions of Russia) in these areas are used shift method of work organization.

Professional shift work in the Far North has high requirements for the creation of conditions for the physiological, psychological and socio-psychological adaptation.

Extremity of this work is due to constant exposure to unfavorable climatic and geographical, industrial and social and domestic factors, the need for constant pendulum migration, so that employees are constantly experiencing the processes of "adaptation – the re-adaptation", a high intensity of labor in the shift period. Despite great efforts to reduce the impact of negative factors, professional activity in the Far North is one of the extremes professional activities. Therefore, the attention of researchers is aimed not only at ensuring the necessary conditions, but also to the study of adaptive resources and professional fitness of the employee. Since the reaction of an organism and mind to negative factors characterized by a great individuality and individual diversity, one of the most promising ways to reduce the negative consequences of the North is an approach that takes into account this diversity not only on the physiological, but also on a psychological level.
Ziv-aflibercept: A novel angiogenesis inhibitor for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Chung Clement , Pherwani Nisha
Published: October 2013

Purpose

The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, safety, and administration of ziv-aflibercept in combination therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) are reviewed.

Ziv-aflibercept (Zaltrap, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and sanofi-aventis) is a novel recombinant fusion protein that targets the angiogenesis signaling pathway of tumor cells by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors that play a key role in tumor growth and metastasis; it is a more potent VEGF blocker than bevacizumab. Ziv-aflibercept is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in combination with fluorouracil, irinotecan, and leucovorin (the FOLFIRI regimen) for second-line treatment of patients with mCRC who have disease progression during first-line oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. A Phase III trial demonstrated that relative to FOLFIRI therapy alone, the use of ziv-aflibercept was associated with significantly improved patient response, overall survival, and progression-free survival in patients with good performance status at baseline, including some who had received prior bevacizumab therapy. The most common grade 3 or 4 adverse effects associated with ziv-aflibercept use in clinical studies were neutropenia, hypertension, and diarrhea; the U.S. product labeling warns of potential hemorrhage and other treatment-related risks.

Conclusion

Current clinical data are insufficient to directly compare ziv-aflibercept and bevacizumab when used with standard combination chemotherapy as first- or second-line regimens for mCRC. The role of ziv-aflibercept is currently limited to the second-line setting in combination with irinotecan-based regimens in mCRC patients who have not received irinotecan previously. The role of ziv-aflibercept in chemotherapy for other tumor types is yet to be determined.
Impact of the spatial distribution of morphological pattern on the efficiency of electrocatalytic gas evolving reactions
Authors: Zeradjanin Aleksandar
Published: October 2013

The efficiency of electrocatalytic gas evolving reactions (hydrogen, chlorine
and oxygen evolution) is a key challenge for the important industrial
processes, such as chlor-alkali electrolysis or water electrolysis. Central
issue for the aforementioned electrocatalytic processes is huge power
consumption. Experimental results accumulated in the past, as well as some
predictive models ("volcano" plots) indicate that altering the nature of the
electrode material cannot significantly increase the activity of mentioned
reactions. Consequently, it is necessary to find a qualitatively different
strategy for improving the energy efficiency of electrocatalytic gas evolving
reactions. Usually disregarded fact is that the gas evolution is an
oscillatory phenomenon. Given the oscillatory behavior, a key parameter of
macrokinetics of gas electrode is the frequency of gas-bubble detachment.
Bearing in mind that the gas evolution greatly depends on the surface
morphology, a methodology is proposed that establishes a rational link
between the morphological pattern of electrode with electrode activity and
stability. Characterization was performed using advanced analytical tools.
Frequency of gas-bubble detachment is obtained in the configuration of
scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) while the corrosion stability is
analyzed using miniaturized scanning flow electrochemical cell connected to
the mass spectrometer (SFC-ICPMS).
Do Analysts Follow Managers Who Switch Companies? An Analysis of Relationships in the Capital Markets
Authors: Brochet Francois , Miller Gregory S. , Srinivasan Suraj
Published: October 2013

We examine the importance of professional relationships developed between analysts and managers by investigating analyst coverage decisions in the context of CEO and CFO moves between publicly listed firms. We find that top executive moves from an origin firm to a destination firm trigger analysts following the origin firm to initiate coverage of the destination firm in 10 percent of our sample, which is significantly higher than in a matched sample. Analyst-manager “co-migration” is significantly stronger when both firms are within the same industry. Analysts who move with managers to the destination firm exhibit more intense and accurate coverage of the origin firm than they do in other firms and compared to other analysts covering the origin firm. The advantage no longer holds after the executive's departure, and most of the analysts' advantage does not carry over to the destination firm. However, the analysts do increase the overall market capitalization of firms in their coverage portfolio. Our results hold after Regulation Fair Disclosure, suggesting that these relationships are not based on selective disclosure. Overall, the evidence shows both the importance and limitations of professional relationships in capital markets.

Data Availability: Data are publicly available from sources identified in the article.
Long-Term Effects of the Booster-Enhanced READY-Girls Preconception Counseling Program on Intentions and Behaviors for Family Planning in Teens With Diabetes
Authors: Charron-Prochownik Denise , Sereika Susan M. , Becker Dorothy , White Neil H. , Schmitt Patricia , Powell A. Blair , Diaz Ana Maria , Jones Jacquelyn , Herman William H. , Rodgers Fischl Andrea F. , McEwen Laura , DiNardo Monica , Guo Feng , Downs Julie
Published: October 2013

OBJECTIVE

To examine 12-month effects of a booster-enhanced preconception counseling (PC) program (READY-Girls) on family planning for teen girls with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants 13–19 years of age (n = 109) were randomized to a standard care control group (CG) or intervention group (IG) that received PC over three consecutive clinic visits. Prepost data were collected at baseline, 3- and 6-month booster sessions, and a 12-month follow-up visit.

RESULTS

Mean age was 15.8 years; 9 (8%) subjects had type 2 diabetes; and 18 (17%) subjects were African American. At baseline, 20% (n = 22 of 109) had been sexually active, and of these, 50% (n = 11) had at least one episode of unprotected sex. Over time, IG participants retained greater PC knowledge (F[6, 541] = 4.05, P = 0.0005) and stronger intentions regarding PC (significant group-by-time effects) especially after boosters. IG participants had greater intentions to discuss PC (F[6, 82.4] = 2.56, P = 0.0254) and BC (F[6, 534] = 3.40, P = 0.0027) with health care providers (HCPs) and seek PC when planning a pregnancy (F[6, 534] = 2.58, P = 0.0180). Although not significant, IG participants, compared with CG, showed a consistent trend toward lower rates of overall sexual activity over time: less sexual debut (35 vs. 41%) and higher rates of abstinence (44 vs. 32%). No pregnancies were reported in either group throughout the study.

CONCLUSIONS

READY-Girls appeared to have long-term sustaining effects on PC knowledge, beliefs, and intentions to initiate discussion with HCPs that could improve reproductive health behaviors and outcomes. Strong boosters and providing PC at each clinic visit could play important roles in sustaining long-term effects.
Total and Cause-Specific Mortality by Elevated Transferrin Saturation and Hemochromatosis Genotype in Individuals With Diabetes: Two General Population Studies
Authors: Ellervik Christina , Mandrup-Poulsen Thomas , Tybjærg-Hansen Anne , Nordestgaard Børge G.
Published: October 2013

OBJECTIVE

Mortality is increased in patients with hereditary hemochromatosis, in individuals from the general population with increased transferrin saturation (TS), and also in patients with type 1 diabetes and increased TS from a highly specialized diabetes clinic. Thus, we have recommended targeted screening for TS in specialized diabetes clinics. Whether mortality is also increased in individuals from the general population with diabetes and increased TS is unknown.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In two Danish population studies (N = 84,865), we examined mortality according to baseline levels of TS and hemochromatosis genotype (HFE) G → A substitution at nucleotide 845 in codon 282 (C282Y/C282Y) in individuals with diabetes (type 1, N = 118; type 2, N = 3,228; total, N = 3,346).

RESULTS

The cumulative survival rate was reduced in individuals with diabetes with TS ≥50% vs. <50% (log-rank; P < 0.0001), with median survival ages of 66 and 79 years, respectively. The hazard ratio (HR) for TS ≥50% vs. <50% was 2.0 (95% CI 1.3–2.8; P = 0.0004) for total mortality overall (and similar for men and women separately); 2.6 (1.3–5.4; P = 0.008) for neoplasms; and 3.4 (2.0–6.0; P = 0.00002) for endocrinological causes. A stepwise increased risk of total mortality was observed for stepwise increasing TS (log-rank test, P = 0.0001), with an HR for TS ≥70% vs. TS <20% of 4.8 (2.0–12; P = 0.0006). The HR for total mortality in individuals with diabetes for C282Y/C282Y versus wild type/wild type was 3.3 (1.04–10; P = 0.04), and for C282Y/C282Y and TS ≥50% versus wild type/wild type and TS <50% was 6.0 (1.5–24; P = 0.01). Six percent of these premature deaths can possibly be avoided by early screening for TS or HFE genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with diabetes, ascertained in the general population, with increased TS or HFE genotype have a twofold to sixfold increased risk of premature death.
Cardiometabolic Risk Is Associated With Atherosclerotic Burden and Prognosis: Results From the Partners Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography Registry
Authors: Hulten Edward , Bittencourt Marcio Sommer , O'Leary Daniel , Shah Ravi , Ghoshhajra Brian , Christman Mitalee P. , Montana Philip , Steigner Michael , Truong Quynh A. , Nasir Khurram , Rybicki Frank , Hainer Jon , Brady Thomas J. , Di Carli Marcelo F. , Hoffmann Udo , Abbara Suhny , Blankstein Ron
Published: October 2013

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to evaluate coronary artery disease (CAD) prevalence and prognosis according to cardiometabolic (CM) risk.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Registry of all patients without prior CAD referred for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Patients were stratified by groups of increasing CM risk factors (hypertension, low HDL, hypertriglyceridemia, obesity, and dysglycemia) as follows: patients without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with fewer than three or with three or more CM risk factors, patients with T2DM not requiring insulin, or those with T2DM requiring insulin. Patients were followed for a primary end point of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) composed of unstable angina, late coronary revascularization, myocardial infarction (MI), and cardiovascular mortality.

RESULTS

Among 1,118 patients (mean age 57 ± 13 years) followed for a mean 3.1 years, there were 21 (1.9%) cardiovascular deaths and 13 (1.2%) MIs. There was a stepwise increase in the prevalence of obstructive CAD with increasing CM risk, from 15% in those without diabetes and fewer than three CM risk factors to as high as 46% in patients with T2DM requiring insulin (P < 0.001). Insulin exposure was associated with the highest adjusted hazard of MACE (hazard ratio 3.29 [95% CI 1.28–8.45], P = 0.01), whereas both T2DM without insulin (1.35, P = 0.3) and three or more CM risk factors without T2DM (1.48, P = 0.3) were associated with a similar rate of MACE.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients without diabetes who have multiple metabolic risk factors have a similar prognosis and burden of CAD as those with T2DM not requiring insulin. Among patients with diabetes, the need for insulin therapy is associated with greater burden of CAD as well as worse prognosis.