bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative Completion Clean-Up Design and Execution for Shah Deniz Stage 2 Development Project
Authors: Mollayev E. , Javaid M. , Gill G. , Johnston M. , Schwarz F. , Dobrynin Y. , Erkan T. , Elghamry M. , Huseynov R. , Runchey M. , Gros T.
Published: October 2017

This paper describes the design and operational performance of the 15 kpsi Shah Deniz Stage 2 completion clean-up surface process equipment which has been designed to ensure solid/debris-free gas/condensate production at first gas in 2018. This project demonstrates a genuine step change in the design and operation of well testing and clean-up systems. It takes process safety to a new level whilst simultaneously reducing the overall equipment footprint, compared to traditional well test systems.

The design brief for this project included a requirement to safely process and correctly dispose of all fluids produced from completed SD II production wells. This included formation hydrocarbons at elevated flow rates, completion fluids and residual drilling fluids. The surface package also had to fit within the rig well test deck and individual skid weights kept within the rigs crane capacity. As a result, the decision was made to design, engineer and manufacture a customized set of equipment. Additionally, an upgraded data acquisition system was required to process the increased volume of data as well as provide the required level of system monitoring and control. An enhanced process shut down system was also needed in order to implement the shut down philosophy demanded by the projects process safety policies.

The SD II completion installation schedule, in which twelve wells were completed back to back, called for a semi permanent installation of the surface process package. This provided the opportunity to implement many of the design upgrades described in this paper. As a result of these upgrades operations have been carried out in a safer, more controlled and efficient manner, whilst simultaneously maintaining full compliance with all industry and company specific regulations. The two central elements to this operational efficiency was due to the surface equipment operating well within its design envelope, even at high flow rates, and the data acquisition system enabling the entire process system to be fully monitored and controlled. This enhanced process control enabled emerging risks to be rapidly detected and mitigated prior to any detrimental escalation.

This paper discusses the various challenges posed by the project and the ways in which these were mitigated and overcome. Many of these design solutions can be applied to future high flow rate surface systems.
Delivering Russia's Longest Offshore ERD Open-Hole Gravel Pack Well
Authors: Kumar Manish , Bouches Vincent , Shmakov Alexander , Plotnikov Alexey
Published: October 2017

Sakhanlin Energy Investment Company operates 3 offshore platforms in the Sea of Okhotsk east of Sakhalin Island in the Russian Ferderation. The Piltun Astokhskoye oil field is being developed by the PA-A and PA-B integrated drilling and production platforms. The Lunskoye gas field is being developed from the LUN-A integrated drilling and production platforms. The Lunskoye field is being developed using ERD technology and the sandface completions have transitioned from oriented perforations to open hole gravel packs. Executing these openhole gravel packs in these challenging extended-reach wells is quite challenging. And this is further complicated by the harsh climatic conditions around the island. Sakhalin Energy recently completed two of these wells successfully which are delivering over 400 MMscf/d of sand-free gas to the island's liquefied natural gas plant.
First Hybrid Bit Experience for Balaxany and Fasila Formations in Azerbaijan Region
Authors: Kravchenko Andrey , Mikhailov Vladimir , Sheraliyev Meiirzhan
Published: October 2017

The drilling activity challenges in Azerbaijan are usually associated with the Pereriv (also known as the Fasila) formation due to highly abrasive tight sandstones and high vibrations while drilling, especially in deeper zones. Optimizing the rate of penetration (ROP) while maintaining toolface control is a challenge in the region when trying to reduce cost and maximize margins for customers. One past solution included a choice of premium milled-tooth roller-cone bits with multiple trips due to the bearing and seal life of the cones. Polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits were another solution that yielded marginal ROP improvement when not sliding and balling issues were not present. After a nearly year-long preplanning phase, the customer drilled these formations with a hybrid drill bit and tripled the previous ROP without any noticeable drop entering Fasila. Throughout the section the weight on bit (WOB) was limited due to very high cuttings volume from the increased ROP. Overall, the first hybrid bit run replaced two roller-cone bits, and the second deeper hybrid bit run replaced 2-½ roller-cone bits. Sliding was deployed during drilling with no issues, maintaining toolface control. Hole quality improvements were noted during successful wiper trips and casing.

Even though hybrid bits were previously used in the Caspian Sea region (Kazakhstan side), the two included case studies represent the first experience of hybrid bit technology used in Azerbaijan accounting for multiple achievements and potential break-through performance for future projects.
Impact of Thin Oil-Rim to the Development of Gas-Condensate Fields in the South Caspian Basin
Authors: Mammadov Tahir , Javadzade Rovshan , Abdullayev Vugar
Published: October 2017

It is common to observe thin oil zones with limited thickness between the gas cap and the bottom water in gas-condensate reservoirs. The existence of thin oil zone must be taken into account in the development plan of the gas-condensate reservoirs, as this nuance has a significant influence on the recovery factor of reservoirs.

The objective of this paper is to understand the influence of thin oil zone to the development of the gas-condensate reservoirs in the South Caspian Basin. A numerical 3D hydrodynamic reservoir model has been built and sensitivity analysis has been performed for different reservoir properties. The results of the cumulative gas and condensate production were studied in terms of the reservoir total recovery factor to show the impact of different reservoir properties.

According to the results, it is crucial to study and understand the thin oil zone in gas-condensate reservoirs, as the presence of thin oil zone increases the reservoir recovery. Even not produced separately, the thin oil zone has positive influence on the development of gas-condensate reservoirs.

Additionally, the sensitivity study shows that the properties such as the reservoir absolute permeability, the thickness of the oil zone, the aquifer strength, the critical gas saturation, the critical water saturation and the residual condensate saturation have an essential influence on the final results even if the thin oil zone exist in the gas-condensate reservoirs. From the reults, it can be inferred that, although the thin oil zone has a positive impact on the gas-condensate reservoir recovery, the above mentioned properties also must be investigated and taken into account.
Investigation of an Analytical Solution for Spontaneous Imbibition to Effectively Estimate Special Core Analysis SCAL Properties
Authors: Khan Abdul Saboor , Alyafei Nayef
Published: October 2017

A newly derived solution for capillary dominated flow is investigated by comparing it to experimental and numerical simulation data of spontaneous imbibition in water-wet rocks. The analytical solution allows for the estimation of relative permeability and capillary pressure data for rocks.

To validate the analytical solution, it is evaluated for published data for co-current and counter-current spontaneous imbibition on four water wet rock samples. The published experimental saturation data for these rocks is scaled by the square root of time, and the result is compared with the corresponding analytical solution. To further investigate the validity of the analytical solution, a 1-D numerical simulation model is created for the spontaneous imbibition experimental setup and run with identical conditions.

Experimental data for spontaneous imbibition, when scaled by the square root of time, converges approximately to a single curve. It is therefore evident that the analytical solution is valid for water-wet rocks. Saturation function curves that are obtained from the analytical solution are then used as inputs to 1-D numerical models of cores with properties and dimensions that are identical to the experiments. The saturation profiles obtained from numerical modelling results, when scaled by the square root of time, display good quantitative agreement with the analytical solution, with deviations between the two sets of results varying in the range of 1 – 6% for the four data sets.

The analytical solution is very promising in that it can be used as a basis to extract otherwise time consuming Special Core Analysis (SCAL) properties by carrying out relatively fast and simple spontaneous imbibition experiments. The procedure introduced can also be adopted as a complement to the existing SCAL experiments to verify results.
Comprehensive Study of the Charlson Oil Field, Williston Basin, ND
Authors: Anderson Jordan , Rice Joseph , Said Abdulkadir , Mehrer Cody , Ostadhassan Mehdi , Alexeyev Alan
Published: October 2017

The objective of this study is to perform geological, petrophysical, geomechanical, decline curve, and economic analyses; a numerical reservoir simulation; and lastly a well and facility design for the Mission Canyon Formation of the Charlson Field of North Dakota. Essentially, the goal is to perform a broad start-to-finish analysis of the Charlson Field, while also determining the feasibility of a different development plan than what was used. It is important to note that the study is on a look-back basis as the field is mature and depleted.

Geological and petrophysical analyses were performed using available well log and core data. A complete geomechanical and wellbore stability study was done as well. The well and facility design consists of casing, cementing, and separator design. These designs were established using historical designs, literature, and calculations. Numerical reservoir simulation was performed using simulation software and data obtained from the geological and petrophysical analysis. Decline curve analysis was performed using field production data. Lastly, economic analysis used historical oil prices, well cost data, and reservoir simulation production data.

The results of the geological and petrophysical analyses helped to better understand the lithology, geology, and petrology of the Charlson Field. These results refined the area of study to areas of high production capability and obtained characteristics to use later in the study. The geomechanical analysis provided a Mechanical Earth Model, and a mud weight window that could be used to create drilling mud, and casing designs. The well design portion delivered casing and cement designs, that along with drilling mud designs created using the mud weight window, could have possibly helped alleviate casing failures seen in the field. The separator design provided an optimized separator system and operational conditions. The numerical reservoir simulation and decline curve analysis both provided production estimates for a development plan. The economic analysis was performed to determine the economic feasibility of the proposed development plan. The study determined that drilling another well in 1984 during the infill drilling of a separate well could have generated ~$18 Million net present value, with a rate of return of 18%. In addition, the well design could have helped alleviate casing failures in the Charlson Field. With the above conclusions, it is easy to see that even with the limited data used in this project, it is imperative to manage data for optimal results in any development.
Improving TCO Well Integrity Process through Successful Deployment of Well Integrity Portal
Authors: Tursinbayeva Damira , Kuznetsov llya , Sadyrbakiyev Renat , Yeskayir Batima , Barragan Daniel
Published: October 2017

Historical events and recognition of the potential hazards caused by the adverse production environment (such as high pressure and high H2S) of existing wells in Tengiz and Korolev fields has led Tengizchevroil (TCO) to always be focused on risk mitigation and safety procedure and fully aware of the criticality of well integrity. Thus, appropriate and robust processes were developed early in the field development as a precationary step to mitigate the risk of potential well failure events. These processes later evolutioned into fully documented, automated, robust TCO Well Integrity process, which meets both industry API RP standards, Chevron Process Safety guidance and Kazakhstan’s Industrial Safety Laws.

However, increasing number of TCO wells increases the possibility of potential risks considering that Well Integrity Process (WIP) requires a lot of manual work and data review by engineers. In order to improve reliability of the process, the team has developed and successfully launched the Well Integrity Portal (WIP) dashboard to automate routine duties. As a result, fully deployed WIP has provided engineers with full set of interactive dashboard functionality, which includes, but not limited to: live data/metrics visualization, automated workflows for alert/notification, non-conformance report generation, etc. This paper will provide overview of TCO’s Well Integrity program and details on how Well Integrity Portal has been developed and deployed to ensure continuous benefit to the company and incident-free operation.
Building a Trend for Chemical Remediation Jobs in ACG
Authors: Allahverdiyev Parviz , Anguiano Juan , Gathman Brad , Agayev Farid
Published: October 2017

High gas and sand production along with productivity decline are amongst some common well management challenges in oil producers of Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli (ACG) field in the Azerbaijan sector of the Caspian Sea. This paper will focus on trials in the region in deploying chemical treatments to tackle excessive gas and sand production in unconsolidated reservoirs.

Sand production can disrupt normal operations at topside facilities, cause well management challenges and well productivity impairment. Successful sand shut-off (SSO) also means reduction of some financial and safety impacts for the business.

Reservoir pressure support through secondary recovery mechanisms is an important component for delivering production targets of ACG field. With continuation of gas injection for reservoir pressure support, the Gas Oil Contact (GOC) can move closer to the producers at times resulting in well management challenges due to rising well Gas Oil Ratios (GORs). Upon free gas breakthrough (GBT), well drawdowns are actively restricted to prevent further growth in gas rate and subsequent acceleration of oil rate decline. For some wells, an effective Gas Shut-Off (GSO) would mean immediate production impact associated with increased drawdown available potential. In others, the driver for GSO is the need to minimize total facility gas production volumes to avoid immediate or future production deferrals due to gas facility constraints. In sand producing wells, successful GSO interventions provide the secondary benefit of reducing risk of flow-line and choke erosion that arise during well life.

Various mechanical and chemical techniques have been assessed and deployed in trials to mitigate high gas and sand production in ACG over the last four years. The objective of this paper is to share the candidate selection methodology and results of the chemical GSO and SSO trials implemented to date. In addition to this overview, the surveillance data supporting the candidate selection process will be presented with pre and post intervention well parameters to demonstrate the impact of the shut-off techniques along with longevity.
Experience of Acidizing Injection Wells for Enhanced Oil Recovery at the Zhetybai Field Kazakhstan
Authors: Suleimanov Baghir A. , Guseynova Naida I. , Rzayeva Sabina C. , Tulesheva Gulnar D.
Published: October 2017

The article discusses the results of local acid treatment of key wells situated in the selected area of the deposit. This technique allows not only to recover well injection capacity, but also to increase the area sweep efficiency both according to the formation thickness and its strike, which helps to increase oil recovery.The method for effectiveness evaluation of the deposit stimulation technique has been proposed. It is based on calculation of formation system hydrodynamic characteristics with the account of well interference. Based on the geophysical well logging data (GWL), the area sweep efficiency is determined in accordance with the formation area and thickness.The proposed method has been implemented on the basis of the data of the Zhetybai (Kazakhstan) deposit.
Using DTS on Gas Injectors to Monitor Flow Distribution
Authors: Seyidov Murad , Nurmammadov Emil , Mammadli Ilkin
Published: October 2017

Understanding flow distribution across the well is significant piece of surveillance and important input for decisions related to well and reservoir management. Companies face significant challenges to monitor it. DTS is one of the technologies to mitigate challenges and minimize surveillance costs. As part of surveillance plan of ACG Res02 pilot program, DTS has been installed on a newly drilled gas injector (GI1). Significant learnings have been acquired from this trial.

GI1 was drilled as part of a pilot program on Res02 reservoir, which is currently at early stages of development. It has been equipped with number of surveillance tools as well as DTS across the whole sand interval. DTS profile on injector was generated based on difference in temperature of injected fluid and reservoir. Specifically in ACG environment injected gas temperature is higher than that of reservoir. Hence, warming effect was expected on the zones taking injected gas where due to heterogeneous nature of the reservoir, uneven injection into sublayers can occur.

DTS enabled real-time monitoring of how temperature profiles change across the sands and revealed uneven distribution of injected gas across the reservoir. When gas injection rate was increased, clear change in temperature profiles was observed – injection was getting into the lower sands as well. Moreover, shut-in DTS traces helped more accurately identify gas taking sands based on coolback effect. As injected gas temperature is higher than the reservoir temperature, temperature profile will be cooling back towards the geothermal gradient once the well is shut-in. This can be considered as warmback analogue that can be seen in water injector temperature logs.

Introducing DTS on gas injectors is both cost efficient and provides continuous flow monitoring, which enables real time decision making. Since it is dealing with only one fluid phase (gas) it provides more certainty. Information gathered from DTS will have a strong impact on field development planning, pressure maintenance, as well as smart completion designs.
Water Breakthrough Effect on Well Productivity and Skin Factor Change
Authors: Huseynov Rufat , Babayev Javid , Sadikoglu Kasim , Azizov Ehtiram , Ismayilova Farida
Published: October 2017

Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli (ACG) is the world class, giant offshore oil field located in Azerbaijan sector of Caspian Sea with secondary drive mechanism as water and gas injection. The productivity index of comingled wells is high and average initial rate reaches 20mbd. As soon as water breaks through at producer from one of sand units, skin factor increases which leads to oil productivity reduction. Several causes of skin factor increase were investigated such as; scaling, fines migration, other mechanical damages, emulsion, relative permeability change etc. The impact of each mechanism should be well understood for better business decisions.

Impact of relative permeability change due to water breakthrough (WBT)was investigated in this paper via analytical and numerical well test methods. Impact of fluid migration from higher pressuresed sand into lower one through wellbore was also investigated. The results are aligned with the actual field observations.
Diagnosing Multiphase Flow Regime in Multilayered Reservoir by Distributed Temperature Sensor Data
Authors: Mammadli Nijat , Malikov Haji , Suleymanov Arif
Published: October 2017

The article discusses the possibility of diagnosing the multiphase flow regime in the multilayered reservoir by using DTS (distributed temperature sensing) data.

The analysis of the theoretical and actual curves of temperature build up and drawdown, corresponding to the main modes of multiphase flow of formation fluids are given in this article.

The possibility of diagnosis of the multiphase flow regime is found based on analysis and interpretation of the characteristics of temperature build-up and drawdown in different intervals of the reservoir at the start of the well or shut in, or by changing opening degree of the choke.

The possibility of diagnosing water breakthrough (WBT) intervals, based on the analysis of the changes in temperature curves according to the DTS is shown.

For a more detailed analysis and interpretation of temperature change curves in the wells more frequent DTS measurements are required. It is necessary to conduct a comparative analysis of the dynamics of the temperature and pressure redistribution in the productive zone of the well, with the results of geophysical logging, production logging, taking samples of reservoir fluids from different zones of productive layers in the multilayered reservoir, moisture metering, hydrometry and others.
History Matching Water Breakthrough Timing Using Analytical Techniques
Authors: Siddiqui I. , Sharma H. , Mehta M. , Kannan K.
Published: October 2017

An integrated analytical approach is presented that predicts water breakthrough timing of producing wells in the absence of surveillance (sparse PLTs, reservoir pressure and PTA) and seismic data. It is critical to understand water movement because 20% of the wells in the reservoir have produced water and are now closed for production due to lack of water handling facilities. Results are compared to existing dynamic models which are unable to accurately predict water breakthrough timing.

This approach uses production and tubing head pressure data along with gamma ray logs and wells’ saturation data to provide insights into reservoir properties. It combines geological study along with classical analytical methods like Stiles’ calculations and Rate Transient Analysis (RTA) to understand and predict the movement of water in the reservoir. The approach uses RTA for estimating key reservoir properties and Stiles’ method to calculate water breakthrough timing in the wells. After combining inferences from all data, sweep efficiency calculations are used to corroborate the water breakthrough timingspredicted by dynamic model with analytically calculated timings. Detailed algorithms and workflows are provided.

Findings from geological study of this oilfield in the Middle East and results from Rate Transient Analysis show that water is moving preferentially in certain areas in the reservoir. Combining this concept of preferential water movement with Stiles and sweep efficiency calculations predicts water breakthrough of wells that have broken water within a range of 3 months when compared to history. Converting the conceptual model into a geocircular grid for simulation enables the model to test different geological scenarios and capture uncertainties. The new history-matched models not only predict water breakthrough timing of the wells but also cover a range of geological uncertainties. Better forecast of water production helps calibrate the upcoming water handling facility at the site for improved production from the field.

The novelty of this approach is in the simplicity and speed with which it can solve a complex problem. It overcomes a very common hurdle of data uncertainty and unavailability to answer the pertinent question of water breakthrough timing at each producer well using standard analytical techniques.
Value of Information and Risk Preference in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Projects
Authors: Ibarra Martin Vilela , Oluyemi Gbenga , Petrovski Andrei
Published: October 2017

Accurate and consistent assessment of the Value of Information is a fundamental requirement for efficient management of any Oil and Gas Exploration and Production project. Although the current methods of assessment consider the uncertain nature of the input parameters used to value projects, however, it does not include the risk of ruin or bankruptcy if the case that actually occurs is one with negative or zero value (e.g. in Net Present Value terms).

In this paper, the risk attitude of the decision maker is integrated into the methodology of Value of Information using the Utility Function approach with a special focus on the oil and gas industry. The result obtained following the evaluation methodology developed shows that the Value of Information is an assessment over a set of alternatives which depend on the risk attitude of the decision maker.
Produced Water Treatment by Using Nanofibrous Polyvinylidene Fluoride Membrane in Air Gap Membrane Distillation
Authors: Moradi Rasoul , Mehrizadeh Masoud , Niknafs Hassan
Published: October 2017

The removal of oil from produced water is one of the main environmental topics in oil and gas reservoir exploitations and industrial operations. In this study, a new method was introduced for efficient and cost effective treatment of produced water by using nanofibrous polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) in air gap membrane distillation (AGMD) process. The PVDF membrane was fabricated through electrospinning technique and characterized by means of various methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), liquid entry pressure (LEP) test, gas permeation and contact angle goniometry. The prepared membranes were tested for permeation flux and oil separation efficiency in AGMD process. The results indicate that the optimally modified membrane yields high permeate flux of around 17.5 kg/m2h and total oil removal efficiency of 99.9 % compared to commercial membranes.
Everyone Engaged! - Driving Contractor Performance through Advanced Safety Leadership Training Programs at Oil and Gas Assets
Authors: Ivanov Ivan , Nienhaus Annette
Published: October 2017

Up to 80% of activities at oil and gas assets are performed by contractors, with contractors often carrying out high-hazard, non-routine works that are not under the immediate supervision and direction of the host organization. As a consequence, gaps in contractor safety performance are one of the biggest safety risks for corporations today, and managing contractor performance is an ongoing challenge.

Effective contractor management will include extending the host organizations's environment, health & safety (EHS) management systems and programs to contractors, while at the same time driving personal engagement and interactions with contractors to impact mindsets and decisions. Implementing EHS leadership training programs based on accelerative learning methods are an effective tool to ensure both the systems side and the personal side are met. Based on two case studies, we illustrate how engaging contractors in people-centered safety leadership training programs fosters a positive safety culture across host and contractor organizations alike, and drives performance change through the whole organization.
DESEMPENHO AGRONÔMICO E ATIVIDADE FOTOSSINTÉTICA DE RABANETES NAS CONDIÇÕES AMAZÔNICAS
Authors: Guerra Antonia Mirian Nogueira de Moura , Ferreira Júlia Batista Azevedo , Vieira Thaís Silva , Franco Jaci Roecker
Published: October 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho agronômico de cultivares de rabanete (Raphanus sativus L.) nas condições climáticas Amazônicas. Adotou-se o delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro tratamentos, sendo eles as de rabanete: Gigante Siculo, Saxa, Spakler e Zapp, todas da empresa ISLA Sementes®. O espaçamento adotado foi de 0,10 x 0,10 m. As avaliações foram realizadas aos 15 e 30 dias após a emergência (DAE). Avaliou-se: número de folhas, altura da planta, diâmetro da raiz, massa fresca e seca das folhas e da raiz, produtividade, razão de massa de folhas e raiz, taxa de assimilação líquida de carbono (A), condutância (gs), taxa transpiratória (E), eficiência instantânea no uso da água (A/E) e relação entre as concentrações interna e externa de carbono (Ci/Ca). A cultivar Saxa apresentou maior altura de plantas, diâmetro da raiz, massa fresca das folhas e da raiz, enquanto que a cultivar Zapp apresentou maior RMF, e as cultivares Spkler e Saxa mostraram maior RMR aos 15 DAE. Aos 30 DAE a cultivar Zapp apresentou maior número de folhas, a Gigante Siculo apresentou maior massa fresca das folhas, da raiz e RMR em relação as demais cultivares. Quanto a produtividade, não houve diferença estatística entre as cultivares, entretanto, Saxa, Spakler e Zapp tenderam a maiores produtividades, com 17,21, 16,12 e 15,23 t ha-1, respectivamente. No intervalo de 15 dias entre avaliações, todas as cultivares passaram a apresentar o dobro de massa fresca em suas raízes, e as cultivares Gigante Siculo e Saxa apresentaram raízes com 39,78 e 39,92g, com um ganho diário de 1,97 e 1,41g, respectivamente. Zapp e Spakler apresentaram maior taxa fotossintética (A = 19,96 μmol CO2 m-2s-1) e transpiração (E = 5,00 mmol H2Om-2s-1) em relação as demais, respectivamente. Spakler apresentou maior condutância estomática e relação Ci/Ca com incrementos de 10,87% e 5,63%, respectivamente, em relação à Zapp, bem como menor eficiência instantânea no uso da água frente as demais. Zapp e Saxa foram as cultivares com maior taxa fixação de carbono e eficiência no uso da água a custa de menor transpiração e abertura estomática e maior eficiência da maquinaria fotossintética. Podemos indicar para o cultivo nas condições de Santarém–PA, as cultivares Saxa, Spakler e Zapp, pois apresentaram-se como as mais produtivas.
Comments on “Asymptotically stable equilibrium points in new chaotic systems”
Authors: Algaba Antonio , Fernández-Sánchez Fernando , Merino Manuel , Rodríguez-Luis Alejandro José
Published: October 2017

In the commented paper ten nonlinear chaotic systems are presented. Authors state that these systems do not exhibit Shilnikov chaos. Unfortunately, this assertion is not correctly proved because they use an erroneous theorem from the literature.
Use of process guides for comprehensive urban sanitation technology decision-making: practice versus theory
Authors: Ramôa Ana Rita , McConville Jennifer , Lüthi Christoph , Matos José Saldanha
Published: October 2017

The need for taking a comprehensive perspective when selecting sanitation technologies in developing contexts has been increasingly discussed. Process guides, which are planning documents describing steps decision-makers need to take, represent one possible contribution to attain comprehensive decisions. An interview study with sanitation experts was carried out to understand the importance and real use of such planning documents for the selection of urban sanitation technologies in developing countries, as well as to understand the relevance and actual consideration of decision elements and to identify recommendations for taking them into account. Although process guides appear to be helpful to guide planning processes, their use does not seem to be common practice. It is actually doubtful that the sector is currently able to make better use of those documents in the form that they exist today. Furthermore, the importance of a comprehensive approach is generally recognised, but relevant decision elements were said to be often neglected. Finally, results from the interview analysis also emphasised the need for a conducive policy environment, namely by developing appropriate institutional and legal frameworks, and by incentivising planners and decision-makers to further adapt to comprehensive decision-making practices that effectively improve the sanitation situation in developing countries.
Membrane processes for the reuse of car washing wastewater
Authors: Uçar Deniz
Published: October 2017

This study investigates alternative treatments of car wash effluents. The car wash wastewater was treated by settling, filtration, and membrane filtration processes. During settling, total solid concentration decreased rapidly within the first 2 hours and then remained constant. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and conductivity were decreased by 10% and 4%, respectively. After settling, wastewater was filtered throughout a 100 μm filter. It was found that filtration had a negligible effect on COD removal. Finally, wastewater was filtered by four ultrafiltration membranes of varying molecular weight cutoff (MWCO) (1, 5, 10 and 50 kDa) and one nanofiltration membrane (NF270, MWCO = 200–400 Da). The permeate COD concentrations varied between 64.5 ± 3.2 and 85.5 ± 4.3 mg L−1 depending on UF pore size. When the NF270 nanofiltration membrane was used, the permeate COD concentration was 8.1 ± 0.4 mg L−1 corresponding to 97% removal. FeCl3 precipitation and activated carbon adsorption techniques were also applied to the retentate and 60–76% COD removals were obtained for activated carbon adsorption and FeCl3 precipitation, respectively.
Long-Term Kidney Outcomes in High BMI Living Kidney Donors: A Narrative Review
Authors: Murthy Kalyani , Caldwell Hannah , Simpson Mary A.
Published: October 2017

Background:

The shortage of transplantable organs has led to the expansion of the living kidney donor (LKD) pool to include overweight (body mass index [BMI] 25-30 kg/m2) and obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) donors. Higher BMI is a known risk factor for chronic kidney disease and progression to end-stage renal disease.

Methods & Materials:

We focused our review on long-term kidney-related outcomes (kidney function, hypertension, and proteinuria) among higher BMI LKDs. A PubMed search retrieved a total of 27 articles reporting on renal outcomes for obese LKDs. Of these, nine studies with ≥5 years of follow-up were selected for inclusion.

Results:

Five studies reported a decrease in kidney function at follow-up for higher BMI LKDs. Higher BMI was noted as a risk factor for hypertension in six studies. Proteinuria was reported in six studies, and a significant association was noted with higher BMI status in three.

Conclusion:

This review highlights the continued need for long-term documentation of kidney function and related outcomes in higher BMI LKDs.
Workflow of CAD / CAM Scoliosis Brace Adjustment in Preparation Using 3D Printing
Authors: Weiss Hans-Rudolf , Tournavitis Nicos , Nan Xiaofeng , Borysov Maksym , Paul Lothar
Published: October 2017

Background:

High correction bracing is the most effective conservative treatment for patients with scoliosis during growth. Still today braces for the treatment of scoliosis are made by casting patients while computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM) is available with all possibilities to standardize pattern specific brace treatment and improve wearing comfort.

Objective:

CAD / CAM brace production mainly relies on carving a polyurethane foam model which is the basis for vacuuming a polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) brace. Purpose of this short communication is to describe the workflow currently used and to outline future requirements with respect to 3D printing technology.

Method:

Description of the steps of virtual brace adjustment as available today are content of this paper as well as an outline of the great potential there is for the future 3D printing technology.

Results:

For 3D printing of scoliosis braces it is necessary to establish easy to use software plug-ins in order to allow adding 3D printing technology to the current workflow of virtual CAD / CAM brace adjustment. Textures and structures can be added to the brace models at certain well defined locations offering the potential of more wearing comfort without losing in-brace correction.

Conclusions:

Advances have to be made in the field of CAD / CAM software tools with respect to design and generation of individually structured brace models based on currently well established and standardized scoliosis brace libraries.
Beyond the Trial: Systematic Review of Real-World Uptake and Engagement With Digital Self-Help Interventions for Depression, Low Mood, or Anxiety (Preprint)
Authors: Fleming Theresa , Bavin Lynda , Lucassen Mathijs , Stasiak Karolina , Hopkins Sarah , Merry Sally
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Digital self-help interventions (including online or computerized programs and apps) for common mental health issues have been shown to be appealing, engaging, and efficacious in randomized controlled trials. They show potential for improving access to therapy and improving population mental health. However, their use in the real world, ie, as implemented (disseminated) outside of research settings, may differ from that reported in trials, and implementation data are seldom reported.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to review peer-reviewed articles reporting user uptake and/or ongoing use, retention, or completion data (hereafter usage data or, for brevity, engagement) from implemented pure self-help (unguided) digital interventions for depression, anxiety, or the enhancement of mood.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of the Scopus, Embase, MEDLINE, and PsychINFO databases for studies reporting user uptake and/or usage data from implemented digital self-help interventions for the treatment or prevention of depression or anxiety, or the enhancement of mood, from 2002 to 2017. Additionally, we screened the reference lists of included articles, citations of these articles, and the titles of articles published in Internet Interventions, Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR), and JMIR Mental Health since their inception. We extracted data indicating the number of registrations or downloads and usage of interventions.

RESULTS

After the removal of duplicates, 970 papers were identified, of which 10 met the inclusion criteria. Hand searching identified 1 additional article. The included articles reported on 7 publicly available interventions. There was little consistency in the measures reported. The number of registrants or downloads ranged widely, from 8 to over 40,000 per month. From 21% to 88% of users engaged in at least minimal use (eg, used the intervention at least once or completed one module or assessment), whereas 7-42% engaged in moderate use (completing between 40% and 60% of modular fixed-length programs or continuing to use apps after 4 weeks). Indications of completion or sustained use (completion of all modules or the last assessment or continuing to use apps after six weeks or more) varied from 0.5% to 28.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

Available data suggest that uptake and engagement vary widely among the handful of implemented digital self-help apps and programs that have reported this, and that usage may vary from that reported in trials. Implementation data should be routinely gathered and reported to facilitate improved uptake and engagement, arguably among the major challenges in digital health.
Facilitating Web-Based Collaboration in Evidence Synthesis (TaskExchange): Development and Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Turner Tari , Steele Emily , Mavergames Chris , Elliott Julian ,   Project Transform Team
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

The conduct and publication of scientific research are increasingly open and collaborative. There is growing interest in Web-based platforms that can effectively enable global, multidisciplinary scientific teams and foster networks of scientists in areas of shared research interest. Designed to facilitate Web-based collaboration in research evidence synthesis, TaskExchange highlights the potential of these kinds of platforms.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes the development, growth, and future of TaskExchange, a Web-based platform facilitating collaboration in research evidence synthesis.

METHODS

The original purpose of TaskExchange was to create a platform that connected people who needed help with their Cochrane systematic reviews (rigorous syntheses of health research) with people who had the time and expertise to help. The scope of TaskExchange has now been expanded to include other evidence synthesis tasks, including guideline development. The development of TaskExchange was initially undertaken in 5 agile development phases with substantial user engagement. In each phase, software was iteratively deployed as it was developed and tested, enabling close cycles of development and refinement.

RESULTS

TaskExchange enables users to browse and search tasks and members by keyword or nested filters, post and respond to tasks, sign up to notification emails, and acknowledge the work of TaskExchange members. The pilot platform has been open access since August 2016, has over 2300 members, and has hosted more than 630 tasks, covering a wide range of research synthesis-related tasks. Response rates are consistently over 75%, and user feedback has been positive.

CONCLUSIONS

TaskExchange demonstrates the potential for new technologies to support Web-based collaboration in health research. Development of a relatively simple platform for peer-to-peer exchange has provided opportunities for systematic reviewers to get their reviews completed more quickly and provides an effective pathway for people to join the global health evidence community.
Randomized Clinical Trial of Sevelamer Carbonate on Serum Klotho and Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 in CKD
Authors: Liabeuf Sophie , Ryckelynck Jean-Philippe , El Esper Najeh , Ureña Pablo , Combe Christian , Dussol Bertrand , Fouque Denis , Vanhille Philippe , Frimat Luc , Thervet Eric , Mentaverri Romuald , Prié Dominique , Choukroun Gabriel ,   for the FRENCH Study collaborators
Published: October 2017

Background and objectives

Epidemiologic studies suggest that higher serum phosphaturic hormone fibroblast growth factor 23 levels are associated with increase morbidity and mortality. The aim of the FGF23 Reduction Efficacy of a New Phosphate Binder in CKD Trial was to evaluate the effect of sevelamer carbonate on serum C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 levels in normophosphatemic patients with CKD stage 3b/4.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Patients with CKD, eGFR between 45 and 15 ml/min per 1.73 m2, fasting serum phosphate concentration >3.1 mg/dl, and serum C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 >80 relative units/ml were included in our double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized multicenter study. All patients received 100,000 IU cholecalciferol at time of randomization. Participants received either placebo or sevelamer carbonate 4.8 g daily during a 12-week period. Biologic parameters, including serum C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23, intact fibroblast growth factor 23, and α-klotho, were evaluated at baseline and 12 weeks after inclusion.

Results

Of 96 screened patients, 78 (mean±SD age: 63±13 years old; 70% men; mean eGFR: 27±9 ml/min per 1.73 m2) met the inclusion criteria. At baseline, mean eGFR was 27±9 ml/min per 1.73 m2, mean serum phosphate level was 3.8±0.5 mg/dl, and median (interquartile range) serum C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 level was 157 (120–241) relative units/ml. After 12 weeks of treatment, urinary phosphate-to-creatinine ratio fell significantly in the sevelamer group. The sevelamer and placebo groups did not differ significantly in terms of median change in serum C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 levels: the median (interquartile range) change was 38 (−13–114) relative units/ml in the placebo group and 37 (−1–101) relative units/ml in the sevelamer group (P=0.77). There was no significant difference in serum intact fibroblast growth factor 23, α-klotho, or phosphate levels changes between the two groups. Serum total and LDL cholesterol levels fell significantly in the sevelamer group.

Conclusions

In our double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study performed in normophosphatemic patients with CKD, a 12-week course of sevelamer carbonate significantly reduced phosphaturia without changing serum phosphorus but did not significantly modify serum C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 and intact fibroblast growth factor 23 or α-klotho levels.
EFFICACY OF ORAL REFRESHER STRIP CONTAINING FIVE TYPES OF ESSENTIAL OILS ON ORAL MALODOR
Authors: Hendraputri Fiestaellyzha Eka , Rahardjo Anton , Soekanto Sry Angky
Published: October 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of an oral freshener strip containing five types of essential oils on oral malodor.Methods: This study was a clinical trial using cross-over, randomized-double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial design with 15 male participants. The measured parameters were tongue coating, organoleptic score, and volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) score.Results: After the essential oil strip dissolved in the oral cavity, there was no significant reduction in tongue coating, but there was significant reduction (p<0.05) in the organoleptic score until 60 minutes after dissolved and VSCs until 30 minutes after dissolved.Conclusion: Essential oil strips are more effective than placebo strips in reducing oral malodor.
ANTIBACTERIAL EFFECT OF JAVA TURMERIC ETHANOL EXTRACT AGAINST DUAL-SPECIES STREPTOCOCCUS MUTANS AND STREPTOCOCCUS SANGUINIS BIOFILM (IN VITRO)
Authors: Busri Ajrina , Puspitawati Ria , Utami Sri
Published: October 2017

Objectives: The minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) of Java turmeric (Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb.) ethanol extract is 25% against Streptococcus mutans and 15% against Streptococcus sanguinis as single species. This study aimed to examine the antibacterial effect of Java turmeric ethanol extract against S. mutans and S. sanguinis as dual-species. S. mutans and S. sanguinis compete against each other to obtain nutrients.Methods: The antibacterial effect of Java turmeric ethanol extract against dual-species Streptococcus in vitro was analyzed by measuring the growth of bacteria after exposure to the extract by counting colony formation and quantifying bacterial cell numbers using real-time polymerase chain reaction.Result: The MBC of Java turmeric ethanol extract against dual-species Streptococcus is 10%. S. sanguinis is more sensitive to the extract than S. mutans. Conclusions: The antibacterial effect of Java turmeric ethanol extract on S. mutans and S. sanguinis as single species differs from the effect on the bacteria as dual-species of Streptococcus.