bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Populerization of maize among the small farmers of Ernakulam district of Kerala through front line demonstration
Authors: Meena Vijendra Kumar , Subramannian Shinoj , Anjlo Pushraj , Dipti N. V.
Published: December 2015

To popularise maize crop (Zea maize) among small farmers of Ernakulam district of Kerala, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute organised 25 demonstrations during 2012-13 to 2014-15 on traditional farmer’s field. Maize cultivars Pratap-4 and Pratap-5 were used for demonstration during January to May and September to December season. Farmers were motivated and trained for maize seed multiplication and cultivation aspects. Results of demonstration revealed that Pratap-4, Pratap-5 and local variety produced 33.70, 30.7 and 23.4 q/ha, respectively. Average income generated by the crop range from Rs. 40440/- to Rs. 36840/- and local variety Rs. 30240/-. Cost benefit ratio was 2.18, 1.99 and 1.77. for Pratap-4 , Pratp-5 and local variety, respectively. Technology index was reduced in the 2nd and 3rd year showed the feasibility of maize crop in the area. Thereafter, 500 farmers initiated the small scale farming of maize in the district with the technical guidance provided from KVK.
Screening of horsegram germplasm collected from Andhra Pradesh against anthracnose
Authors: Sankar A. Udaya , Anitha K. , Sivaraj N. , Kumari K. V.S. Meena , Sunil N. , Chakrabarty S. K.
Published: December 2015

Twenty-one (21) diverse horsegram accessions collected from various parts of Andhra Pradesh state were screened in greenhouse along with four check varieties against Colletotrichum dematium, causal agent of anthracnose disease. Based on Per cent disease index (PDI), one accession, IC470275 was identified as immune and the remaining accessions were either moderately resistant or susceptible. Grid maps generated using DIVA-GIS indicated the areas with highest Shannon diversity index for PDI and highest coefficient of variation recorded for horsegram accessions collected from Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. The results also indicated that diverse accessions for reaction against C. dematium can be sourced from Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh.
Seed fortification with chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) leaf extract to enhance seed vigour, viability and productivity in blackgram (Vigna mungo L.)
Authors: Vanitha C. , Kathiravan M.
Published: December 2015

Study was carried out to evaluate the effect of herbal fortification of seeds with chicory leaf extract on seed physiological properties related to vigour, viability and yield potential in blackgram cv. ADT 3. The treatment was effected through soaking of one month old seeds with fresh chicory (Cichorium intybus L) leaf extract at 10, 20 and 25 per cent concentrations followed by dehydration in a drying chamber at 30° C for three days to reach original moisture content (10 ± 0.25% on wet weight basis). Part of the treated seeds was subjected to artificial and natural ageing process. Treated and aged seeds when evaluated through germination per cent, speed of germination, dry matter production and biochemical properties, significant differences were evident with 20 per cent concentration. The magnitude of reduction after ageing in respect of the aforesaid parameters was more in control and the least in herbal fortified seeds. Treated seeds (20% extract) exhibited higher activity of free radical scavenging enzyme of catalase (2122 units), lower amounts of leachate amino acids (40.15 μg) and lipid peroxidation value (0.144) and also an enhancement in dry weight accumulation (20.23 g), leaf area index (5.35) and net assimilation rate (0.41 mg) leading to higher yield per plant (6.15 g) under field conditions.
What Benford Can Tell Us About Cover Pools – An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Kienle Stephan
Published: December 2015

Leading digits often follow a distribution described by Newcomb (1881) and Benford (1938). We apply this phenomenon known as Benford’s Law on cover assets provided by issuers of German covered bonds. The main finding of the empirical analysis is that leading digits of these assets seem to follow the Benford distribution. Standard statistical evidence, however, might be misleading due to effects of large data sets. Consequently, the present paper also provides an example of how to deal with large data sets when a Benford distribution is assumed.
Setting-up a European Cross-Provider Data Collection on Open Online Courses
Authors: Kalz Marco , Kreijns Karel , Walhout Jaap , Castaño-Munoz Jonatan , Espasa Anna , Tovar Edmundo
Published: December 2015

While MOOCS have emerged as a new form of open online education around the world, research is stilling lagging behind to come up with a sound theoretical basis that can cover the impact of socio-economic background variables, ICT competences, prior experiences and lifelong learning profile, variance in intentions, environmental influences, outcome expectations, learning experience and economic return on taking and completing Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). The potential diversity of participants of MOOCs has been taken as a starting point to develop a theoretical model and survey instrument with the goal to establish a large-scale, cross-provider data collection of participants of (European) MOOCs. This article provides and overview of the theoretical model begin the project and reflects about first experiences with the cross-provider data collection.
Overview of Performance and Analytical Modeling Techniques for Electromagnetic Heating and Applications to Steam-Assisted-Gravity-Drainage Process Startup
Authors: Ghannadi Sahar , Irani Mazda , Chalaturnyk Rick
Published: December 2015

Steam-assisted gravity drainage is the method of choice to extract bitumen from Athabasca oil-sand reservoirs in Western Canada. Under reservoir conditions, bitumen is immobile because of high viscosity, and its typically high level of saturation limits the injectivity of steam. In current industry practice, steam is circulated within injection and production wells. Operators keep the steam circulating until mobile bitumen breaks through the producer and communication is established between the injector and the producer. The “startup” phase is a time-consuming process taking three or more months with no oil production. A variety of processes could be used to minimize the length of the startup phase, such as electromagnetic (EM) heating in either the induction (medium frequency) or radio-frequency ranges. Knowledge of the size of the hot zone formed by steam circulation and of the benefits of simultaneous EM-heating techniques increases understanding of the startup process and helps to minimize startup duration. The aim of the present work is to introduce an analytical model to predict startup duration for steam circulation with and without EM heating. Results reveal that resistive (electrothermal) heating with/without brine injection cannot be a preferable method for mobilizing the bitumen in startup phase. Induction slightly decreases startup time at frequencies smaller than 10 kHz, and at 100 kHz it can reduce startup time to less than two months.
From phycocyanin fluorescence to absolute cyanobacteria biomass: An application using in-situ fluorometer probes in the monitoring of potentially harmful cyanobacteria blooms
Authors: Loisa O. , Kääriä J. , Laaksonlaita J. , Niemi J. , Sarvala J. , Saario J.
Published: December 2015

Cyanobacteria blooms can complicate the economical or recreational use of waters. Many of the bloom forming species are also potential producers of harmful cyanotoxins. The standard method for quantifying phytoplankton biomass, based on inverted microscopy, has high accuracy and is the only one producing biomass results on taxonomic level, but it requires specialized expertise and is time-consuming. Phycocyanin (PC) pigment concentration has been proven as a useful proxy for the concentration of cyanobacteria. Since 2006, we have studied practical solutions of in-situ monitoring of cyanobacteria using PC fluorescence probes. We have studied two eutrophic lakes, Lake Littoistenjärvi and Lake Kuralanjärvi in southwestern Finland using stationary monitoring stations equipped with PC probes. The fluorescence results were compared to independent water samples analyzed using standard methods. The PC fluorescence was positively correlated to cyanobacteria biomass in both lakes. Using site-specific post-calibrations of biomass, PC fluorescence can be used to estimate the absolute biomass of cyanobacteria. The monitoring techniques used in these studies are an applicable and relatively low-cost method to monitor cyanobacteria abundance. With nearly real-time data transfer possibilities, they can be used in management and early warning applications to minimize the harmful effects of cyanobacteria blooms.
In situ real-time optical sensing device for three-dimensional water chemistry surveillance
Authors: Ng C.-L. , Koay T.-B. , Senft-Grupp S. , Chitre M. , Hemond H. F.
Published: December 2015

Assessing the aquatic chemistry of water bodies through sample collection is labor- and time-intensive with limits on discrete spatial coverage that may not provide a detailed representation of the system. A practical approach is to develop in situ sensors deployed aboard autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for three-dimensional water chemistry mapping. For this purpose, a compact optical instrument (LEDIF) measuring fluorescence, absorbance, and scattering to quantify contaminants and natural substances in water bodies is packaged inside a pressure hull and attached to a highly modular and flexible AUV (Small Team of Autonomous Robotic FISH (STARFISH)). LEDIF-STARFISH was deployed at a reservoir in Singapore for in situ real-time chlorophyll a and turbidity data collection. Locations of potential algal hot spots were observed, providing unprecedented insight into the plankton biomass distribution of the reservoir at different times. The results showcase the instrument's potential in tracking spatiotemporal variability of substances in large water bodies.
Application of a shallow water model to analyze environmental effects in the Amazon Estuary Region: a case study of the Guajará Bay (Pará – Brazil)
Authors: Barros M. L. C. , Batista A. G. , Sena M. J. S. , Amarante Mesquita A. L. , Blanco C. J. C.
Published: December 2015

This study used hydrodynamic modeling to investigate the hydrodynamic circulation and pollutant transport of the Guajará Bay-PA. The hydrodynamic modeling was performed using the classical Saint-Venant model for shallow waters. The pollutant dispersion was described using a Lagrangian deterministic model that simulates advective–diffusive transport with kinetic reactions for two-dimensional flow. The finites elements method was used to solve the Saint-Venant and transport equations. The bathymetry data were obtained by combining the data from nautical charts provided by the Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation of the Brazilian Navy. The substrate grain size data for the determination of rugosity were obtained from literature. Data on the tides, the wind and the flowrate of the rivers that form the Guajará bay were used as the boundary conditions in the simulation of the hydrodynamic circulation and the pollutant dispersion scenarios. Flood and ebb tide patterns were simulated, which enabled the contaminant plumes of the Guajará Bay to be simulated. An analysis of the simulated fecal coliform plumes indicated that these pollutants that are produced in the metropolitan region of Belém flow towards the beaches in the North, especially those in the Icoaraci and Outeiro districts, affecting the bathing water quality.
Development of an operational performance indicator system for activated sludge wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Gordon Glenn T. , McCann Brian P.
Published: December 2015

Sustainable operation, optimisation and performance evaluation of municipal wastewater treatment plants (WwTPs) in Ireland is topical due to the transfer of water and wastewater operational and capital delivery functions from 34 local authorities to a single national water utility in Ireland. This paper describes the development process of a sustainable optimisation indicator (SOI) system for small-to-medium sized activated sludge (AS) WwTPs using a stakeholder-based approach. The SOI system provides a framework of indicators for performance assessment to facilitate continuous sustainable performance improvement of AS WwTP operations. The findings from plant optimisation and stakeholder consultation studies and the mechanism for their contribution to the development of the SOI system indicators and framework are presented. The proposed system is applicable to wide range of stakeholders for the sustainable and improved monitoring, operation and management of AS WwTPs.
Treatment of wastewater containing o-phenylenediamine by ozone in a rotor-stator reactor
Authors: Arowo Moses , Li Yingwen , Chu Guangwen , Sun Baochang , Chen Jianfeng , Shao Lei
Published: December 2015

This work employed a novel rotor-stator reactor (RSR) to intensify the degradation process of o-phenylenediamine (o-PDA) by ozone. The effects of different operating parameters including initial pH, temperature, rotation speed, liquid volumetric flow rate and inlet ozone concentration on the removal efficiency of o-PDA were investigated in an attempt to establish the optimum conditions. The removal efficiency was evaluated in terms of degradation ratio and chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction ratio of the o-PDA wastewater. Results indicate that the removal efficiency decreased with increasing liquid volumetric flow rate but increased with an increase in pH and inlet ozone concentration. Also, the removal efficiency increased up to a certain level with an increase in rotation speed and temperature. Additionally, a comparison experiment was carried out in a stirred tank reactor (STR), and the results show that the degradation and COD reduction ratios reached a maximum of 94.6% and 61.2% in the RSR as compared to 45.3% and 28.6% in the STR, respectively. This work demonstrates that ozone oxidation carried out in RSR may be a promising alternative for pre-treatment of o-PDA wastewater.
Personality and Worry: The Role of Intolerance of Uncertainty
Authors: Yang Zhihui , Wang Ruiming , Chen Hui , Ding Jiali
Published: December 2015

We examined the relationship between personality and worry, and tested a mediation model in which intolerance of uncertainty (IU) mediated this relationship. Participants comprised 1,135 Chinese college undergraduates who completed the Chinese versions of the Penn State Worry Questionnaire,
the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale, and the Revised Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Short Scale for Chinese. Results showed that neuroticism, extraversion, and IU were significantly correlated with worry. The paths between personality (neuroticism and extraversion) and worry, and the paths
mediated by IU, were significant. Participants' IU mediated the relationship between personality factors of neuroticism and extraversion, and worry. The results indicated that IU can be considered as a partial mediator of the relationship between personality and worry.
Undergraduate Students' Attitudes Toward, and Personality Correlates in Relation to, Older Adults
Authors: Mansfield-Green Sarah , Morrisseau Nakita-Rose , Valliant Paul M , Caswell Joseph M
Published: December 2015

Attitudes toward older adults have been implicated as a variable likely to influence quality of life and care later in life. Given the trend toward an increase in the proportion of the population aged over 65 years in Canada, it is imperative to understand these attitudes. Prior researchers
have indicated that personality traits are likely to influence individuals' attitudes. Therefore, we examined attitudes toward older adults and the personality correlates associated with these attitudes. Participants (N = 171 undergraduate students) completed the Kogan's Attitude toward
Old People Scale and the 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire. Overall positive attitudes toward older adults were observed. Evaluation of the data showed that positive attitudes were associated with elevated 16PF scores, specifically, for rule-consciousness, warmth, emotional stability, and
tension, with women exhibiting particularly high levels of warmth. Additional findings related to exposure to older adults and perceptions of the older persons themselves are discussed.
Racial Differences in the Performance of Existing Risk Prediction Models for Incident Type 2 Diabetes: The CARDIA Study
Authors: Lacy Mary E. , Wellenius Gregory A. , Carnethon Mercedes R. , Loucks Eric B. , Carson April P. , Luo Xi , Kiefe Catarina I. , Gjelsvik Annie , Gunderson Erica P. , Eaton Charles B. , Wu Wen-Chih
Published: December 2015

OBJECTIVE

In 2010, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) added hemoglobin A1c (A1C) to the guidelines for diagnosing type 2 diabetes. However, existing models for predicting diabetes risk were developed prior to the widespread adoption of A1C. Thus, it remains unknown how well existing diabetes risk prediction models predict incident diabetes defined according to the ADA 2010 guidelines. Accordingly, we examined the performance of an existing diabetes prediction model applied to a cohort of African American (AA) and white adults from the Coronary Artery Risk Development Study in Young Adults (CARDIA).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We evaluated the performance of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) diabetes risk prediction model among 2,456 participants in CARDIA free of diabetes at the 2005–2006 exam and followed for 5 years. We evaluated model discrimination, calibration, and integrated discrimination improvement with incident diabetes defined by ADA 2010 guidelines before and after adding baseline A1C to the prediction model.

RESULTS

In the overall cohort, re-estimating the ARIC model in the CARDIA cohort resulted in good discrimination for the prediction of 5-year diabetes risk (area under the curve [AUC] 0.841). Adding baseline A1C as a predictor improved discrimination (AUC 0.841 vs. 0.863, P = 0.03). In race-stratified analyses, model discrimination was significantly higher in whites than AA (AUC AA 0.816 vs. whites 0.902; P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Addition of A1C to the ARIC diabetes risk prediction model improved performance overall and in racial subgroups. However, for all models examined, discrimination was better in whites than AA. Additional studies are needed to further improve diabetes risk prediction among AA.
The High Multiplicity of Prenatal (Congenital Type) Nevi in Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Cramer Stewart F. , Salgado Cláudia M. , Reyes-Múgica Miguel
Published: December 2015

In the absence of work on prenatal nevogenesis, it has long been necessary to define congenital melanocytic nevi by clinical detection on neonatal skin examination. They are seen in approximately 1% of newborns, with multiplicity in approximately 3% of cases. Melan-A staining of grossly normal fetal skin recently demonstrated fetal nevi, whose features validated certain traditional histologic criteria for “congenital type” nevi that may not have been detectable at birth. This suggested that many clinically acquired nevi actually formed in utero, like congenital nevi. Prenatal nevi has been suggested as a preferred synonym for “congenital type” nevi. Prenatal nevi were detected in 6 of 25 fetuses (24%), a strikingly higher incidence than congenital nevi in newborns. In this series of 354 patients with prenatal (congenital type) nevi encountered in routine practice at a community hospital, over 30% of both adolescents and adults had multiple prenatal nevi; a strikingly higher rate of multiplicity than congenital nevi in newborns. This high multiplicity may reflect origin beneath the epidermis, with many prenatal nevi working their way up to the surface of the skin decades after birth.
Dietary Modifications for Refractory Chronic Rhinosinusitis? Manipulating diet for the Modulation of Inflammation
Authors: Nayan Smriti , Maby Alexandra , Endam Leandra Mfuna , Desrosiers Martin
Published: December 2015

Background

An endotype of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) refractory to medical and surgical management is characterized by persistent T-helper 1/T-helper 17 inflammation of the sinus mucosa, which potentially facilitates colonization with dysbiotic microbial flora. Dietary interventions that target reduction of systemic inflammation are increasingly recommended as adjuncts to ongoing medical therapy in chronic disorders with a strong inflammatory component, such as cardiac disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Inflammation-reducing dietary modifications may thus be of benefit in patients with refractory CRS (RCRS).

Objective

To identify nonpharmacologic approaches that implicate modification of dietary factors, potentially reducing systemic level of inflammation in RCRS.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to identify dietary strategies for reducing inflammation in metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cardiac disease. Mechanistic-based strategies for reducing systemic inflammation were identified and categorized to identify potential therapeutic avenues, which would be applicable to RCRS.

Results

Principal mechanisms for altering inflammation at the systemic level via dietary manipulation center around (1) increased consumption of foods with anti-inflammatory properties, and (2) modulation of the gut microbiome to reduce short-chain fatty acid secretion by dysbiotic gut flora. Recommended dietary modifications to reduce systemic markers of inflammation or to improve RCRS include alteration of macronutrient intake, alterations in consumption of meat and fats, consumption of prebiotics and probiotics, and a low-salicylate diet in the context of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease.

Conclusion

Dietary modifications may offer a potential nonpharmacologic means of reducing inflammation in patients with RCRS and hence may represent a complementary adjunct to existing medical therapies. Additional prospective studies are required to further validate the concept of dietary modifications in patients with RCRS to support the findings.
The Role of Viruses in the Clinical Presentation of Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Rowan Nicholas R. , Lee Stella , Sahu Nivedita , Kanaan Alyssa , Cox Stephen , Phillips Caleb D. , Wang Eric W.
Published: December 2015

Background

The role of viruses in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is poorly understood. In part, this is secondary to difficulty in isolating viruses. Although traditional detection methods for respiratory viruses have had little clinical utility, modern viral screening techniques that use molecular sequencing are now both rapid and feasible, which makes analysis of the paranasal sinus microbiome more accessible.

Objective

To detect respiratory viruses in the paranasal sinuses of patients with CRS and of healthy controls as well as to correlate clinical and radiographic measures of CRS with viral presence.

Methods

In this prospective study, 13 patients with CRS with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) and 8 patients without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP) were enrolled and compared with 14 healthy controls. Samples were obtained from the paranasal sinuses and were screened for viral DNA with polymerase chain reaction—based sequencing techniques. Typical symptoms of CRS, the Sinonasal Questionnaire, and objective measures, including the modified Lund-Mackay and modified Lund-Kennedy scores were obtained.

Results

Eighty percent of the positive screens (4/5) were found in patients with CRSsNP, whereas 20% of the positive tests (1/5) were in the CRSwNP group, and none of the controls tested positive (p = 0.0029). Coronavirus was the most common virus detected. Sinonasal Questionnaire scores of the patients with CRS who tested positive for viruses were higher but not statistically different than those without a positive screen (p = 0.31). Radiographic and endoscopic measures of disease were not significantly different in the setting of a positive viral screen (p = 0.12 and 0.11 respectively).

Conclusion

Although traditionally difficult, advances in molecular sequencing enhance detection of viruses in the sinonasal tract. In this study, respiratory viruses were more commonly isolated from patients with CRS compared with healthy controls. Moreover, viral infection may play a greater role in symptom exacerbation in CRSsNP than in CRSwNP. These findings warrant further investigation into the role of the viral microbiome in CRS.
Long-term Postoperative Azithromycin in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Amali Amin , Saedi Babak , Rahavi-Ezabadi Sara , Ghazavi Hossein , Hassanpoor Narges
Published: December 2015

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is recognized as a common disease that imposes a big burden on the health system worldwide. There is ongoing evidence of the anti-inflammatory effect of long-term macrolide in the management of patients with CRS.

Objective

The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the efficacy of long-term consumption of low-dose azithromycin after functional endoscopic sinus surgery.

Methods

Sixty-six patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. The subjects received the standard conventional treatment (fluticasone nasal spray plus normal saline solution irrigation) or the conventional treatment plus 250 mg of azithromycin on a daily basis for 3 months. Evaluation was made based on the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) immediately before surgery and 3 months after surgery.

Results

The intervention group showed a statistically significant improvement in SNOT-22 scores after the treatment and a higher percentage change after 3 months of therapy compared with the control group. A significant correlation was found between the percentage change of SNOT-22 scores and smoking in the placebo group. Lund-Mackay scores, patient age, and the duration of symptoms had no significant correlation with the percentage change.

Conclusion

Treatment with long-term low-dose azithromycin in combination with the conventional therapy could statistically reduce the recurrence rate of CRS symptoms after functional endoscopic sinus surgery, but there was not sufficient evidence to support clinical significance of azithromycin at the investigated dose. Further larger scale trials, along with a longer follow-up period, is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy.
Acute Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis: Survival Analysis and the Prognostic Indicators
Authors: Gode Sercan , Turhal Goksel , Ozturk Kerem , Aysel Abdulhalim , Midilli Rasit , Karci Bulent
Published: December 2015

Background

Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFR) is a highly mortal, progressive fungal infection of the paranasal sinuses and surrounding structures that is almost always seen in patients who are immunocompromised. Despite the use of newer antifungal treatments and early diagnosis, the prognosis of AIFR does not improve significantly. Due to the higher incidence of patients who are immunocompromised and have more complex disease, AIFR is a growing medical issue in tertiary medical centers.

Objective

The aim of this study was to present the outcomes and analyze the prognostic indicators of patients with AIFR who underwent surgery.

Methods

Between October 2009 and November 2014, 37 patients who underwent surgery for AIFR at a tertiary care university hospital were included in the study. Overall survival and disease-specific mortality and survival rates were calculated to estimate survival function. The impact of age, sex, underlying disease, extent of AIFR, applied medical treatment, and causative species (mucormycosis, aspergillosis) were also taken into consideration. Also, the effect of a variety of laboratory parameters, such as hemoglobin, leukocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelet, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, to survival were evaluated.

Results

The median follow-up time was 58 days (interquartile range = 304). Overall and disease-specific mortality rates were 64.9 and 51.4%, respectively. Fever was the most common symptom (86.5%), along with nasal obstruction and/or fullness (48.6%) and epistaxis (48.6%). Age and sex did not have a significant impact on survival (p > 0.05). Palate involvement was significantly associated with mortality (p < 0.05). According to the results of Cox, regression analysis for disease-specific mortality rate, leukocyte and neutrophil counts as well as CRP levels had a significant effect on survival function (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Palatal involvement was associated with a higher mortality in our study. Also, leukocyte counts, neutrophile counts, and CRP values had a significant impact on survival function. The reversal of the underlying disease and immunosuppression is as important as the medical and surgical treatment.
Development of a Questionnaire for Measuring Health-related Quality of Life among Children and Adolescents with Mouth Breathing
Authors: Leal Rossana B. , Gomes Monalisa C. , Granville-Garcia Ana F. , Goes Paulo S. A. , de Menezes Valdenice A.
Published: December 2015

Background

Mouth breathing can exert an influence on quality of life and should be evaluated within a multidimensional context. However, there is no specific questionnaire to measure the impact of mouth breathing on quality of life.

Objective

To develop and validate a questionnaire for measuring the impact of mouth breathing on quality of life among children and adolescents.

Methods

Thirty-six items were evaluated by six health care professionals, one parent and one child with mouth breathing. After a qualitative evaluation, a modified set of 32 items was developed. The modified Mouth Breather Quality of Life (MBQoL) questionnaire was submitted to a pretest with a sample of 30 children and adolescents diagnosed with mouth breathing to evaluate comprehension, the order of the items, and the form of administration. The MBQoL questionnaire was then administered to 60 children and adolescents (30 mouth breathers and 30 nose breathers) for the evaluation of construct validity, internal consistency, and reproducibility. All the participants answered the questionnaire, and 50% of each group answered the questionnaire a second time after a 1-week interval (test-retest).

Results

Higher MBQoL scores (which indicated poorer quality of life) were significantly associated with mouth breathing. The Cronbach a coefficient for the items of the questionnaire was 0.88, and the Spearman correlation coefficient for test-retest reliability demonstrated that the questionnaire was reproducible (r = 0.993; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Through this validation study, the MBQoL questionnaire demonstrated a good performance in the evaluation of the quality of life of children and adolescents with mouth breathing and may be a useful tool in clinical studies as well as public health programs. However, further studies are needed to establish its applicability in other populations with respiration disorders.
An Analysis of Sleeve Effects for Petrophysical Measurements using Digital Core Analysis
Authors: Alizadeh S. M. , Latham S. , Middleton J. , Senden T. , Arns C. H.
Published: December 2015

Assessing the mechanisms of compaction and their effect on transport properties using digital core analysis necessitates the use of small samples to achieve the required resolution for the calculation of petrophysical properties. In this case boundary effects can be substantial and a direct comparison with experiment is only warranted if the boundary effects are included in the simulation. Here we develop a workflow to define regions within the sample where these boundary effects are minimized. We concentrate in particular on sleeve leakage and use a radial partitioning of the solutions of the transport equations to derive measures free of boundary effects, which may be used for the development of petrophysical cross-correlations.

We use samples of Bentheimer and Castlegate sandstone as well as Mt Gambier limestone and a sucrosic dolomite. Plugs with diameters between 5mm and 7mm are cut and placed into a purpose-build tri-axial cell on a micro-CT rotation stage. The plugs are surrounded radially by a sleeve separating confining fluid from the samples and axially by fluid distribution heads made of steel which also supply the axial load. We consider hydrostatic confinement and acquire images at low confining pressure. Using the high-resolution images we calculate transport properties, electrical conductivity and permeability to flow, numerically on the samples at full plug scale. We include the sleeve boundary in the calculation, which was segmented out separately to allow matching exactly the experimental boundary conditions. The resulting flux fields are used to locally calculate the fluxes in different regions of interest. We consider partitions of the pore space based on topological distance (pores) and geometric distance with regard to the sleeve boundary. This allows calculating intrinsic fluxes as function of sleeve distance to characterize the radial dependency of transport properties across the core.

We observe clear fluid bypassing at the sleeve-sample interface for all samples. For the less consolidated samples (e.g. Castlegate sandstone), core damage at the outer rim is also evident, since the radial dependency shows first a maximum at the sleeve boundary, but then a minimum before stabilizing at larger sleeve distances. This is likely due to compaction from drilling the sample. In addition to the transport properties we also report the porosity as function of sleeve distance for all samples. The leakage observed for the transport properties along the sleeve boundary correlates well with the radial porosity variation for all samples.
Hydrate Cold Restarts: Paradigm Shifts in Hydrate Management
Authors: Lachance Jason W. , Keinath Brendon L.
Published: December 2015

The traditional method of managing hydrates in production systems has been complete avoidance. This methodology comes at a high cost of insulation to maintain fluid temperature beyond the hydrate formation temperature and/or chemicals to prevent hydrates from forming. This paper will present methods to assess hydrate formation/plugging tendencies and manage the system in a manner that allows for reduction in insulation requirements and/or chemical usage.

ExxonMobil's Upstream Research Company (EMURC) has developed a unique hydrate slurry model based on experience gained in the laboratory and field applications. Cold restarts are different than allowing fluids to remain cold indefinitely (i.e. cold flow) in that the hydrates form for a period of time before the system eventually comes out of the hydrate formation region in "steady-state/normal" production. This presentation will show how the model is used to assess hydrate blockage potentials by integration with a transient multiphase flow simulator. This enables the model to predict amounts of hydrates that form and couple the formation with flow dynamics such as shear conditions, phase fractions, and dispersion characteristics which influence the probability of a hydrate blockage forming.

The model has been applied successfully to several applications by assessing various cold restart strategies in which significant cost savings have been realized through the reduction of insulation requirement and/or chemical usage – in some instances it has allowed for the extension of field life.
Qatargas Wastewater Treatment Plants: An Advanced Design for Water Reuse
Authors: Sheikhan Jassim Mohammed , Zainab Ishak , Janson Arnold , Adham Samer
Published: December 2015

Qatargas continually strives to adopt best industry practices throughout its gas extraction and production operations. The Jetty Boil-off Gas Project, the Greenhouse Gas Management Strategy and the Wastewater Management Strategy are prime examples. These projects, and various other initiatives, demonstrate Qatargas' commitment to promote energy security, water sustainability and protection of environment, all important outcomes of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Key elements of the Wastewater Management Strategy are two advanced Wastewater Recycle and Reduction plants (WRRs) currently being built to treat process waters from three liquefied natural gas (LNG) production plants. Each of the WRRs is designed to treat 5 separate process waste streams with a combined average design flow 176 m3/h and 60% recovery as boiler feedwater targeted. The unit processes include both conventional technologies, e.g. de-oilers, sand filters, walnut shell filters, and advanced technologies, e.g. membrane bioreactors and reverse osmosis. This paper includes an overview of the WRR systems, summarizes unit process designs and, based on a comprehensive mass balance, highlights the significance of membrane rejection and operating temperature on the final effluent quality. Also, in preparing the design basis, certain design assumptions were made and this paper includes the results of a sensitivity analysis conducted to determine the impact different design assumptions have on effluent quality.

This paper identifies the challenges in designing a state-of-the-art WWTP with varying quality feed streams and with different end-uses for the treated water. This will be educational for engineers and professionals in the oil & gas industry interested in developing more sustainable methods of handling process wastewaters generated during oil & gas processing operations.
Filter Cake Porosity and Permeability Profile Along the Horizontal Well and Their Impact on Filter Cake Removal
Authors: Bageri B. S. , Mahmoud M. A. , Al-Mutairi S. H. , Kuwait Chevron , Abdulraheem A.
Published: December 2015

The filter cake evaluation involves many comprehensive testing and procedures to determine the filter cake properties such as thickness, mineralogy, porosity, permeability, and filtration to design the optimal mud program. For the maximum reservoir contact (MRC) and extended reach (ER) wells where the horizontal section could be 3000 ft or more in those wells, the filter cake formed by the drilling fluid varied from one section to another in the long horizontal section. Therefore, the process of filter cake removal in maximum reservoir contact and extended reach wells should consider the variation in the filter cake properties to achieve an efficient removal process.

This research focuses on evaluating the filter cake porosity and permeability profile through the horizontal wells. Moreover, the impact of the filter cake porosity and permeability on the removal process is presented in this work. To achieve the objective of this work, high pressure high temperature (HPHT) fluid loss test was conducted to form the filter cake using actual drilling fluid samples. The compositional and structural analysis of filter cake was carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). The drilling fluid studied samples were collected from real field rig while drilling the horizontal section.

The results showed that the drilling operation was initiated with drilling fluid that was capable of forming a filter cake with low porosity (5 %) and permeability (0.01 md) to minimize the filtration volume. In the first part of the horizontal section the filter cake porosity and permeability increased sharply as more feet of horizontal section drilled. The porosity increased to about 35% and permeability to 0.25 md. After that it remains stable with slight decrease. This growth in the filter cake porosity from 5 to 35% reduced the liquid to solid ratio in the removal process from 28 gm per 500 ml up to 18 gm per ml.

The result of this work linked the filter cake properties (thickness, porosity, and mineralogy) in the maximum reservoir contact and extended reach wells with solid to liquid ratio needed to be used in the filter cake removal process. This work will help to reevaluate the filter cake removal and stimulation recipes that were designed based on constant filter cake properties.
Controls on Petrophysical Properties of the Mauddud Formation, Bahra and Sabriyah Fields, Kuwait
Authors: Behbehani Sayed , Hollis Cathy
Published: December 2015

The petrophysical properties of reservoirs represent several factors such as reservoir quality and volume of oil saturation (PHI, PERM and SW). The relationship between these factors is complementary; migration and trapping of oil is critical to reservoir quality preservation and it is often compromised by closure of the structure, quality of the seal and tectonic activity. In Kuwait, the Mauddud Formation in Bahra Field (BAMA) does not show a sustainable oil production, unlike the Mauddud Formation in Sabriyah Field (SAMA), although both fields are neighboring and separated only by a saddle. Well data reveals a considerable reservoir complexity that distinguishes BAMA from SAMA, which cannot be easily ascribed to facies variability. Geological data (seismic, wireline logs, core and thin sections) indicates four main differences in BAMA compare to SAMA. First, general stratigraphic thinning of carbonate sequences due to its palaeo-proximal position that made it more susceptible to erosion and increased clastic supply and, secondly, a sandier seal rock. Thirdly, there is a degradation of reservoir quality where the average oil saturation and the porosity are 50% and 15% respectively, compared to 90% and 20% In SAMA. Finally, three fault orientations occur in BAMA including a distinct E-W trend, that does not observed in SAMA. Three main possible hypotheses postulated in this study are based on early results.

Cementation by meteoric phreatic cements occluded the porosity in BAMA before the arrival of oil. The fresh water penetrations was facilitated by the sandier seal and proximal paleo- environment in BAMA.

Onset and partial growth of the trapping structure in SAMA, allowed an earlier oil expulsion to become trapped, retaining secondary porosity, whilst oil bypassed BAMA traps due to later structural growth.

The E-W faults in BAMA were responsible for oil migration vertically by breaching the seal rock. The leakage was followed by an influx burial fluids which re-activated cementation in BAMA that was arrested for a short period by the arrival of oil.
Wellhead and X-Mas Tree Seal Integrity Challenges in Qatargas OPCO
Authors: Das Prashun Kumar , Jaiswal Navin Prakash
Published: December 2015

This paper is about Wellhead and X-Mas Tree Seal Integrity issues and the innovative approach adopted by Qatargas (QG) to deal with them. It provides a brief about measures taken to minimize the risk for operating wells with Wellhead and X-Mas Tree Seal integrity issues.

QG started production in 1996 and is now one the premier LNG company in the world. After six years of its initial start-up, results of Wellhead and X-Mas Tree Seal tests indicated possible Wellhead and X-Mas Tree seal integrity issues. At that time this matter was thought to be manageable.

In 2011, a Peer Review was arranged between QG, its Shareholders, and the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to analyze the current risk profile of the wells and decide on an action plan. Retesting of wellhead seals was carried out at the end of 2012. Instead of using the conventional approach, new techniques were applied to test the seals. The applied seal testing method was significantly different than the conventional test method, which eliminates the probability of damaging seals while testing. This paper will also highlight the difference in the testing approach. Detailed analysis of test result indicated that the seal integrity issues aggravated over time. Peer Reviews and root cause failure analysis (RCFA) were conducted to understand the cause of many failures.

A wellhead design change was proposed to rectify the seal integrity issue and to eliminate the identified root cause; this paper contains details of internal design changes. The paper also covers the details of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and RCFA. It also covers details of all possible solutions that were thought to be effective initially, but later on were recognized as short term solutions.
Engagement of High Potential Employees Ensures Retention and Sustainable Knowledge Transfer in a Cyclical Industry
Authors: Ash P.
Published: December 2015

Fluctuations in commodity pricing and supply and demand are inherent to the upstream oil and gas market. In recent years, other emerging factors, often onset by these fluctuations, have begun to contribute to the complexity within the human capital component of the industry. Business and human resource leaders are forced to make increasingly difficult decisions regarding personnel capabilities, utilization, and reduction in attempt to align the enterprise in a briskly changing landscape.

With the current knowledge gap between entry to mid-career level and seasoned personnel, coupled with the volatility in commodity prices and organizations' need to react, learning and human resource professionals must navigate a dynamic challenge with personnel: engage high potential, talented employees and ensure their retention in order to create personal career satisfaction, thus securing a sustainable knowledge transfer to developing professionals. This challenge amplifies the need for a diagnostic approach to workforce planning and management in upstream oil and gas organizations.

Traditional talent management tools, such as learning programs, competency initiatives, and career paths, offer proven methods for the employee and organization to maneuver industry cycles. However, as the cycle shifts under the pressure of new challenges, the static and rigid nature of traditional approaches must be examined and refined in order to provide a sustainable talent pipeline. This paper will examine a case study of a highly visible and well-defined talent management framework that provides management with a strategic and calculated method for assessing employee capability against market compatibility in order to make sound decisions in a time of restructuring. Additional research will demonstrate the positive impact of implementing a competency-based, career progression structure to meet business needs, motivate employees, and ensure knowledge retention within an organization.

Finally, it will introduce a brief overview of leveraging action-learning events to incite employees and optimize training resources, such as: intentional mentoring, on-demand learning, and core competency assessment. The paper will establish the value of combining these efforts with career development into a cohesive framework that creates a sustainable, transparent roadmap to shape and facilitate highly engaged, visible, and proficient professionals with the flexibility and agility to withstand future cycles.