bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Advantage of Incorporating Microseismic Data into Fracture Models
Authors: Shaffner J. , Cheng A. , Simms S. , Keyser E. , Yu M.
Published: December 2011

The Canadian sedimentary basin has long been exploited using vertical well-completion techniques, sometimes producing from multiple formation zones. With recent advancements in horizontal drilling and multistage-completion techniques, horizontal wells are quickly replacing vertical completions as the completion method of choice in many unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. A popular completion method uses openhole isolation packers and ball-activated sliding sleeves to target specific intervals along the wellbore during fracture treatments. This allows multiple stages to be completed in short periods of time because fracture operations often do not have to be shut down to precede to the next stage, compared to the more traditional plug-and-perf completion technique.

Microseismic mapping has proven effective in measuring fracture geometries, such as fracture half-length, height, azimuth, and stimulated reservoir volume. This paper outlines the workflow used in understanding and interpreting the created fracture geometry within individual openhole intervals of the openhole packer completion technique.

The microseismic data proves that created fracture geometry can vary dramatically along the openhole section of a horizontal wellbore. Microseismic mapping also indicates that fractures do not always initiate across from the sliding sleeve port, but can in fact initiate anywhere along the openhole section, exhibiting, in some cases, multiple fracture initiation points. The microseismic-mapping results of this project were used to identify reservoir coverage along the horizontal wellbore as well as identify areas in the reservoir that were not sufficiently stimulated.

By using information gained through microseismic monitoring, fracture models can be calibrated to match actual fracture geometry with modeled fracture geometry, resulting in a calibrated fracture model. Once defined, and using the well production history, the fracture model was used to forecast the future production of the well. Using the calibrated model can help operators optimize the number of stages, stage spacing, and fracture-treatment design to maximize reservoir contact and hydrocarbon recovery while minimizing completion costs.
Methodologies, Solutions, and Lessons Learned from Heavy Oil Well Testing with an ESP, Offshore UK in the Bentley Field, Block 9/3b
Authors: Brennan Barny , Lucas-Clements Charles , Kew Steve , Shumakov Yakov , Camilleri Lawrence , Akuanyionwu Obinna , Tunoglu Ahmet , Hayhurst Steve , Simpson John
Published: December 2011

Due to increased hydrocarbon demand and technological advances, production from heavy oil fields in the United Kingdom Continental Shelf (UKCS) has become possible over the past 10 years. Despite substantial reserves in the UKCS with crudes less than 20° API, most of the activity has been confined to exploration and appraisal drilling. The main reason for the restricted activity has been the high uncertainty of the reservoir and fluid properties. Operational complexities inherent to heavy oil also limit the use of conventional appraisal-well testing technology.

A method was developed to determine the most suitable technology for testing wells with heavy oil using an electrical submersible pump (ESP). The solution was applied in the Bentley field located in the UK sector of the North Sea in block 9/3b, on which final appraisal well 9/3b-6Z was flow tested in December 2010.

The technical challenges included a short weather window, maintaining fluid mobility through the surface-testing equipment, oil and gas separation for metering, obtaining accurate flow measurements, and designing the most appropriate ESP system. A combination of technologies—dual-energy gamma ray venturi multiphase flowmeter, real-time monitoring, and a novel ESP completion—provided a solution that enabled successful well test execution. A multirate test reaching a final stabilized rate of 2900 bpd, with a subsequent period of pressure buildup was accomplished in less than 2.5 days with 10 to 12° API crude. A key lesson was how to obtain the quality of data that would enable reservoir engineers to extract with confidence a productivity index and perform pressure transient analysis for reservoir characterization. This success paves the way for development drilling to commence on the Bentley field at the end of 2011, but also demonstrates potential that can enable new heavy oil field developments.
Fracture Stimulation Diagnostics in Horizontal Wells Using DTS
Authors: Tabatabaei M. , Zhu D.
Published: December 2011

Horizontal wells with hydraulic fracture treatments have been proven to be an effective method for developing unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. During the last several years, fracturing methods have evolved and improved rapidly, however, there still exists many uncertainties in fracture design. Several fracture diagnostic techniques have been developed to improve the understanding of the fracturing process. In this study, after reviewing the application and limitations of the current fracture diagnostic techniques, we describe the application of distributed temperature sensing technology (DTS) as a complementary tool for real-time fracture diagnostics. DTS has enabled us to observe the dynamic temperature profile along the wellbore during the treatment. However, quantitative interpretation of dynamic temperature data is very challenging and requires in-depth mathematical modeling of heat and mass transfer during the treatment.

We have developed a thermal model to simulate the temperature behavior along the wellbore during the treatment as well as during the shut-in period. This model takes into account the effect of all significant thermal processes involved, including conduction and convection.

Examples are presented to illustrate how this model can be applied for fracture stimulation diagnostics. Estimation of the fracture initiation points, number of created fractures, distribution of stimulation fluid along each isolated zone, effectiveness of isolation are the problems that DTS can help us to obtain the answers. This information can be used for more accurate fracture modeling and better estimation of fracture conductivity and fracture geometry, and therefore to optimize the future treatments and also evaluate the well performance.
Effect of Methane Co-injection in SAGD – Analytical and Simulation Study
Authors: Sharma Jyotsna , Moore R. G. , Mehta Raj
Published: December 2011

Steam-Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) is a commercially viable recovery method for oil sands of Athabasca, where other methods have been unsuccessful. In one variation of SAGD, a small amount of a non-condensable gas is added to the injected steam to maintain pressure in the chamber while utilizing the energy in place, reducing steam consumption and providing thermal insulation from overburden heat losses. The role of gas during steam-gas co-injection processes, in terms of its effects on chamber development, bitumen flow rates and heat losses is not fully understood and therefore is the main focus of this work.

A new analytical model for gas injection in SAGD is derived, taking into account the three-phase flow of gas, oil and water in the reservoir. The analytical theory is used to predict the fluid flow rates as well as phase mobility, relative permeability and saturation profiles in the mobile oil region. The theoretical results are replicated by fine grid numerical simulations. Methane was used as the non-condensable gas for the purpose of this study as it is the main solution gas in most reservoirs. It is, however, believed that the findings of this study are equally applicable to other non-condensable gases such as nitrogen, air, helium and others. Fine grid numerical simulations were performed to gain a visual understanding of gas distribution in a SAGD chamber and its effect on in-situ steam quality, overburden heat losses, phase saturations and fluid flow rates. The simulation results support the predictions of the mathematical theory.

The results of the analytical and numerical study reveal that methane co-injection with steam is in general unfavorable in a SAGD operation. The injected methane tends to accumulate at the steam condensation front which lowers the heat transfer rate of steam to the adjacent oil resulting in lower oil production rates and slower growth of the chamber.
Relative Permeability of Coal to Gas (Helium, Methane, and Carbon Dioxide) and Water – Results and Experimental Limitations
Authors: Ham Y. S. , Kantzas A.
Published: December 2011

Relative permeability of coal to gas and water is an important variable in coalbed methane (CBM) reservoir development as it is required for reserve estimation and field production planning. In this study, two coal samples (GP and GS) were used to determine the relative permeabilities using three gases (He, CH4 and CO2) at three different operating pressures (100, 300, 400 psi) and a constant overburden pressure of 800 psi. Both drainage and imbibition curves were obtained. Unsteady state displacements were used.

The petrophysical properties of these coal samples were also measured. The very low absolute permeability of the cores (0.07 mD) required special procedures to minimize errors. The experimental results presented here showed that the relative permeabilities were typically very low for all gases and high for water. The irreducible water saturation showed correlation with the type of gas (non-adsorbable He to strongly adsorbable CO2) and pressure.

It is concluded that coal relative permeability to gas and water depended on the nature of gas and the operational pressure. Relative permeability of coal changed also because of fluid-mineral interactions. It is concluded that the GP and GS samples tended to be more water-wet at higher pressures in the case of the adsorbable gases, viz. methane and carbon dioxide. However, in the case of non-adsorbing helium, higher pressure prevented the influx of water into the larger pores leading to smaller irreducible water saturation.
Composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil from Galatella linosyris (L.) Rchb. f. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Godjevac Dejan , Vujisic Ljubodrag , Vuckovic Ivan , Vajs Vlatka , Sokovic Marina , Marin Petar , Tesevic Vele
Published: December 2011

The investigation of chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the
essential oil of Galatella linosyris was presented. Chemical analysis
(GC/MS, NMR) showed that sabinene (40%), ?-pinene (35.5%), ?-pinene (4.5%),
limonene (4%), ?-muurolene (4%), and E-Caryophyllene (3.3%) were dominant
components in this oil. The microdilution assays was used to evaluate
minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal
concentration (MBC, MFC). G. linosyris essential oil exhibited better
antifungal than antibacterial activity.
Accuracy of non-invasive intracranial pressure measurement
Authors: Seddighi Amir , Zadeh Alireza , Seddighi Afsoun , Zali Alireza
Published: December 2011

Non-invasive measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP) reduces the complications and cost for both patient and health care systems. Improvement of non-invasive methods has led to development of systems for reproducing continuous, real-time non-invasive ICP signals. So far, non-invasive methods have been tailored for the patients with head trauma. We have used Schmidt’s auto-adaptive method to assess the accuracy of this method for patients after surgery for supratentorial brain tumors. Data from forty patients with the diagnosis of brain tumor operated from 2008 to 2010 were used to estimate the accuracy of Schmidt’s method in our patients. We obtained the model parameters from 30 recordings. We determined the ICP wave form for the remaining patients by both invasive and non-invasive techniques. In the test group, by invasive method, the mean ICP±2SD was 17.1 ± 6.6 mmHg and using non-invasive method, the mean ICP ± 2SD was 16.5 ± 5.4 mmHg. The calculated error was 4.6 mmHg using root mean square errors. The average Pearson correlation between the estimated and real waveforms was 0.92. We believe that application of this method is acceptable for post-operative assessment of ICP in brain tumor patients.
Clinical, radiological, and pathological features of 24 atypical intracranial epidermoid cysts
Authors: Ren Xiaohui , Lin Song , Wang Zhongcheng , Luo Lin , Jiang Zhongli , Sui Dali , Bi Zhiyong , Cui Yong , Jia Wenqing , Zhang Yan , Yu Lanbing , Chen Siyuan
Published: December 2011

Object

Most intracranial epidermoid cysts typically present with long T1 and T2 signals on MR images. Other epidermoid cysts with atypical MR images are often misdiagnosed as other diseases. In this study the authors aimed to analyze the incidence and the clinical, radiological, and pathological features of atypical epidermoid cysts.

Methods

Among 428 cases of intracranial epidermoid cysts that were surgically treated between 2002 and 2008 at Beijing Tiantan Hospital, cases with an atypical MR imaging appearance were chosen for analysis. Clinical and pathological parameters were recorded and compared in patients with lesions demonstrating typical and atypical MR appearance.

Results

An atypical epidermoid cyst accounts for 5.6% of the whole series. Radiologically, 58.3% of atypical epidermoids were misdiagnosed as other diseases. Compared with a typical epidermoid cyst, atypical epidermoid lesions were significantly larger (p = 0.016, chi-square test). Pathologically, hemorrhage was found in 21 patients with atypical epidermoid cyst and is significantly correlated with granulation (p = 0.010, Fisher exact test). Old hemorrhage was found in 13 cases and was significantly correlated with cholesterol crystals. Twenty-one patients were followed up for 1.3–8.6 years after surgery. The 5- and 8-year survival rates were both 100%. Three patients experienced cyst recurrence. The 5- and 8-year recurrence-free rates were 95% and 81.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

Radiologically, an atypical epidermoid cyst should be differentiated from dermoid cyst, teratoma, schwannoma, glioma, craniopharyngioma, and cavernous angioma. A tendency toward spontaneous hemorrhage is confirmed in atypical epidermoid cysts, and a hypothesis was proposed for spontaneously intracystic hemorrhage in atypical epidermoid cysts. Follow-up confirmed long-term survival of patients with atypical epidermoid cysts.
Chiral Vibrational Structures of Proteins at Interfaces Probed by Sum Frequency Generation Spectroscopy
Authors: Fu Li , Wang Zhuguang , Yan Elsa C.Y.
Published: December 2011

We review the recent development of chiral sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy and its applications to study chiral vibrational structures at interfaces. This review summarizes observations of chiral SFG signals from various molecular systems and describes the molecular origins of chiral SFG response. It focuses on the chiral vibrational structures of proteins and presents the chiral SFG spectra of proteins at interfaces in the C-H stretch, amide I, and N-H stretch regions. In particular, a combination of chiral amide I and N-H stretches of the peptide backbone provides highly characteristic vibrational signatures, unique to various secondary structures, which demonstrate the capacity of chiral SFG spectroscopy to distinguish protein secondary structures at interfaces. On the basis of these recent developments, we further discuss the advantages of chiral SFG spectroscopy and its potential application in various fields of science and technology. We conclude that chiral SFG spectroscopy can be a new approach to probe chiral vibrational structures of protein at interfaces, providing structural and dynamic information to study in situ and in real time protein structures and dynamics at interfaces.
Comparison of Object-Based Image Analysis Approaches to Mapping New Buildings in Accra, Ghana Using Multi-Temporal QuickBird Satellite Imagery
Authors: Tsai Yu Hsin , Stow Douglas , Weeks John
Published: December 2011

The goal of this study was to map and quantify the number of newly constructed buildings in Accra, Ghana between 2002 and 2010 based on high spatial resolution satellite image data. Two semi-automated feature detection approaches for detecting and mapping newly constructed buildings based on QuickBird very high spatial resolution satellite imagery were analyzed: (1) post-classification comparison; and (2) bi-temporal layerstack classification. Feature Analyst software based on a spatial contextual classifier and ENVI Feature Extraction that uses a true object-based image analysis approach of image segmentation and segment classification were evaluated. Final map products representing new building objects were compared and assessed for accuracy using two object-based accuracy measures, completeness and correctness. The bi-temporal layerstack method generated more accurate results compared to the post-classification comparison method due to less confusion with background objects. The spectral/spatial contextual approach (Feature Analyst) outperformed the true object-based feature delineation approach (ENVI Feature Extraction) due to its ability to more reliably delineate individual buildings of various sizes. Semi-automated, object-based detection followed by manual editing appears to be a reliable and efficient approach for detecting and enumerating new building objects. A bivariate regression analysis was performed using neighborhood-level estimates of new building density regressed on a census-derived measure of socio-economic status, yielding an inverse relationship with R2 = 0.31 (n = 27; p = 0.00). The primary utility of the new building delineation results is to support spatial analyses of land cover and land use and demographic change.
Balanced Job Scheduling Based on Ant Algorithm for Grid Network
Authors: Preve Nikolaos
Published: December 2011

Job scheduling in grid computing is a very important problem. To utilize grids efficiently, we need a good job scheduling algorithm to assign jobs to resources in grids. The main scope of this paper is to propose a new Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm for balanced job scheduling in the Grid environment. To achieve the above goal, we will indicate a way to balance the entire system load while minimizing the makespan of a given set of jobs. Based on the experimental results, the proposed algorithm confidently demonstrates its practicability and competitiveness compared with other job scheduling algorithms.
Peer-to-Peer Desktop Grids Based on an Adaptive Decentralized Scheduling Mechanism
Authors: Ali H. Arafat , Saleh A.I. , Sarhan Amany M. , Azab Abdulrahman. A.
Published: December 2011

This article proposes an adaptive fuzzy logic based decentralized scheduling mechanism that will be suitable for dynamic computing environment in which matchmaking is achieved between resource requirements of outstanding tasks and resource capabilities of available workers. Feasibility of the proposed method is done via real time system. Experimental results show that implementing the proposed fuzzy matchmaking based scheduling mechanism maximized the resource utilization of executing workers without exceeding the maximum execution time of the task. It is concluded that the efficiency of FMA-based decentralized scheduling, in the case of parallel execution, is reduced by increasing the number of subtasks.
Design of SOA Based Framework for Collaborative Cloud Computing in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Patel S. V. , Pandey Kamlendu
Published: December 2011

WSN deployments are growing at a fast rate; however, current WSN architectures and setup do not promote the sharing of data on an inter-WSN basis. Cloud computing has emerged as a promising area to deal with participatory and collaborative data and services, and is envisaged that collaborative cloud computing WSN could be a viable solution for sharing data and services for WSN applications. In this paper, SOA based architecture has been proposed to support collaborating cloud computing in WSN. The architecture consists of layered service stack that has management, information, presentation and communication layers with all required services and repositories. Interactions between WSN, subscribers and other cloud are also presented as sequence diagrams. The proposed framework serves the cloud subscribers with wide range of queries on the data of multiple WSNs through suitable interface to solve large scale problems.
Modeling Scalable Grid Information Services with Colored Petri Nets
Authors: Sahota Vijay , Li Maozhen , Hadjinicolaou Marios
Published: December 2011

Information services play a crucial role in grid computing environments in that the state information of a grid system can be used to facilitate the discovery of resources and services available to meet user requirements and help tune the performance of the grid. This paper models PIndex, which is a grouped peer-to-peer network with Colored Petri Nets (CPNs) for scalable grid information services. Based on the CPN model, a simulator is implemented for PIndex simulation and performance evaluation. The correctness of the simulator is further verified by comparing the results computed from the CPN model with the results generated by the PIndex simulator.
From E-Government to E-Governance
Authors: Kloby Kathryn
Published: December 2011

Increasing scarcity of resources and citizen demand for improved government services are leading public administrators and elected officials to search for new ways to communicate with citizens. The aim is to gain insight through the collective wisdom of the public to inform programmatic and budget decisions. What can result is the alignment of citizen preferences with government actions. E-government involves the integration of technology into government processes and services to provide information, opportunities for interactions, transactions, and transformation through collaboration. There has been much advancement in the way government incorporates technology into its operations. The availability of information and features on government websites that permit transactions are some of the areas that the public sector has vastly improved and provides to the public. Technology also offers the potential for transformation, when it is used to facilitate governance through collaboration within government, across sectors, and with citizens. Web 2.0 is one such technology that involves web-based applications to increase citizen engagement and potentially transform government. Such applications include Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. This chapter profiles three state and local government programs that are utilizing Web 2.0 technologies to bring citizens into the public policy process and record, and potentially act on, their ideas and policy suggestions. The chapter concludes with a discussion of some of the possible concerns associated with adopting Web 2.0 technologies in government processes and outreach strategies, as well as areas for future research.
Social Media and Web 2.0 for Rethinking E-Government Maturity Models
Authors: Kim B. Joon , Robinson Savannah
Published: December 2011

In this chapter, the authors argue that social media and Web 2.0 technologies have the potential to enhance government responsiveness, representation, citizen participation, and overall satisfaction with the public policy-making process. To do that, this chapter suggests the dialectical approach of a new E-government maturity model through both New Public Service and Social Construction of Public Administration views. Then, they provide guidance to practitioners who are responsible for developing social media and Web 2.0 strategies for public service organizations. Finally, to provide guidelines for public administrators, this chapter argues that the “public sphere” should be redefined by citizen’s online social networking activities with public administrators and capacity building activities among practitioners in public service agencies through their use of social media and Web 2.0 tools.
Diagnosis, Supporting, and Fading
Authors: Ge Xun , Law Victor , Huang Kun
Published: December 2011

This chapter presents a design framework of scaffolding that can be applied in designing adaptive e-learning systems. The framework is primarily grounded in socio-cultural theory and built on a critical analysis of literature on scaffolding. It addresses three key processes in scaffolding (i.e., diagnosis, supporting, and fading) and four conditions for designing scaffolding (i.e., who, what, how, and when). From the historical perspective, this chapter also provides a literature review of adaptive systems. The characteristics of adaptive systems from different paradigms are specifically examined through the lens of scaffolding. To illustrate the application of the scaffolding framework in system adaptation, four web-based e-learning systems are described to demonstrate how various scaffolding strategies are implemented through the design of the systems. In conclusion, issues related to designing scaffolds for adaptive e-learning systems are discussed, and research gaps are identified for future investigation.
Empowering Digital Learners
Authors: Huang Wenhao David , Yang Dazhi
Published: December 2011

Motivation drives our learning behaviors. Our abilities to intentionally control our motivation to learn, however, remain largely limited because motivation is a subliminal and synthetic mental state derived from the interactivity between our prior experiences and the learning environment. In a digital game-based learning system (DGBLS), learners are always bombarded by a colossal amount of cognitive, social, and affective stimuli that afford and affect the interactivity, which can easily trigger learners’ motivational responses and leads to the consequences of not being able to manage their motivation. As a result the intended learning processes can be interrupted. Although learners cannot control their motivation in this case, they can manage their interactivity with the DGBLS to select and process stimuli that are relevant to the learning tasks. Therefore this chapter intends to propose a process framework to empower learners to autonomously manage their interactivity with the DGBLS in order to stay focused on the learning tasks. Specifically this framework will draw literatures on learners’ motivational processing and cognitive processing pertaining to learning in the DGBLS.
Planning and Dimensioning of the 3G UMTS Core Networks
Authors: Ouyang Ye , Fallah M. Hosein
Published: December 2011

The current literature provides many practical tools or theoretical methods to design, plan, and dimension Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) radio networks, but overlooks the algorithms of the network planning and dimensioning for core networks of GSM, UMTS, and IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS). This chapter introduces an algorithm for traffic, bandwidth, and throughput dimensioning of the network entities in the UMTS core network. The analysis is based on the traffic and throughput generated or absorbed in the interfaces of the network entities in the UMTS core network. Finally a case study is provided to verify the algorithms created for UMTS core network. This chapter is aimed at helping UMTS network operators dimension an optimum network size and build an optimum network structure to deliver an optimum quality of service for users. The algorithms developed in the chapter have been successfully applied in dimensioning a nationwide UMTS network in North Africa and adopted in an optimization tool by a mobile operator in the United States in 2008-09.
Valuation of Alternative Business Models in Information, Communication and Media Markets
Authors: Nascimento Álvaro , Santos Fernando
Published: December 2011

Information, Communication and Media Markets (ICMM) are in a process of tremendous change. IP-based technologies and services such as broadband and triple/quadruple-play are realities that have the ability to enforce the convergence of so far parallel industries, that is, Telephony, Internet, and Broadcast. In this paper, the authors derive a scenario where a telecom operator aims to design, develop, and validate a global B3G (Beyond 3rd Generation) framework to support secure, personalized, and pervasive telecommunications services built on heterogeneous network and service infrastructures. The authors rethink the telecommunications architecture and business models to enable easy, seamless, and pervasive access to content and services, while supporting user preferences and context. This proposal involves significant changes in current industry business models. A value chain approach allows the identification of different scenarios, where the firm faces several options from which to choose. The authors investigate operators’ decision process and evaluates the project based on its flexibility, using a real option approach.
Lack of Technology in Urban Schools
Authors: Washington Tamika
Published: December 2011

Many times in urban schools, computers and learning software are either at a shortage or simply do not exist. In schools like that, the ratio of students to computers can be as high as 20 to one. This case study compares the learning technology resources and opportunities accessible to William and Terrance, two cousins who attended 4th grade in two different school districts.
Large School District Struggles to Obtain E-Rate Funds After Bid-Rigging Probe
Authors: McPheeters Dallas
Published: December 2011

E-Rate is a funding source established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on May 7, 1997. The purpose of the funding is to ensure Universal Telecommunications Service is available to public schools and libraries. Telecommunication services include voice, data, internet, and classroom learning solutions. Schools and libraries apply for E-Rate assistance when adding telecommunications infrastructure upgrades. If approved, applicants are required to follow and maintain strict accounting procedures and any red flags raised during the continual compliance assurance process can immediately stop funding until a resolution is found. The potential for a good deal of tension among education stakeholders exists when E-Rate funding is put on hold due to such audit questions. Such experiences are common as detailed in this case study.
Video Games in the Classroom
Authors: Vallejo Anabel
Published: December 2011

Mrs. Long’s integration of video games in the classroom is a work in progress. She has observed how video games are a great way to motivate and engage students. On the other hand, she has observed how video games can lead to behavior and academic problems.
Leveraging Technology to Develop Pre-Service Teachers’ TPACK in Mathematics and Science Methods Courses
Authors: Popejoy Kate , Polly Drew
Published: December 2011

These two cases address issues related to using technology as a tool to develop pre-service teachers’ Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) in mathematics and science methods courses. The chapter assumes the following scenario and overarching case study question: You and your colleagues are the course instructors of a mathematics and a science methods course. Your pre-service teachers typically lack content knowledge in mathematics and science. Further, you must also address pedagogies and how to use technology as a tool to support student learning of mathematics and science concepts. What activities can you create to simultaneously develop knowledge of content, pedagogies and how to teach with technology?
Integration in Supply Chain Management
Authors: Mozafari Marzieh , Tafazzoli Sajedeh
Published: December 2011

In today’s competitive and fast-moving business environment, the viability of organizations depends on integrating with other supply chain members so their complementary skills and compatible goals help them survive and prosper. Therefore, firms link their internal process to external suppliers and customers, with different levels of integration, to reduce cost and improve responsiveness and service level. The aim of this chapter is to study integration as a main component of supply chain management discipline in achieving competitive advantage and performance improvements. The authors begin with reviewing sourcing decisions that stress firms’ benefits in establishing long-term relationships with higher level of integration. Different types and levels of integration are defined, and a basic integrated supply chain model is studied to help in understanding the meaning and aspects of this term. Finally, the partnership development process including partner selection, contracting, and maintenance, along with various aspects of each phase, is reviewed.
Sustainability in Supply Chain Management
Authors: Dehghanian Farzad
Published: December 2011

This chapter introduces sustainable development and its influences on supply chain management context. Sustainable development brings economical, environmental, and social concerns into managerial issues in supply chain. So working in sustainable environment will be more complex for managers who are now responsible to consider business functions from the three dimensions of sustainable developments. In this paradigm, managers seek the ways to avoid negative environmental and social impact of their operations and at the same time earn economical benefits. Furthermore, sustainability forces managers to deal with different stakeholders included in three dimensions of sustainable development. To proceed in this way, this chapter first presents environmental and social considerations and relevant stakeholders in supply chain management and offer some changes to manage the multi-dimensional and multi-stakeholder nature of the sustainable supply chain. Then, it discusses about the sustainability assessment frameworks to evaluate sustainability of a company as well as a supply chain.
Stochastic Programming in Supply Chain
Authors: Hamzeei Mahdi , Kazemzadeh Narges
Published: December 2011

In today’s global market, Supply Chain Management provides a framework on which decision makers can prepare a production or service network to be more competitive. The huge number of decisions as well as the underlying uncertainty make this system too complex. Stochastic programming as an optimization technique, which incorporates uncertainty in decisions, has been employed in this area. In this chapter, the authors will investigate some applications of stochastic programming in Supply Chain. The authors also explain briefly about stochastic programming.
Reliability, Limit States and Action Factors for ISO 19906
Authors: Thomas Graham A.N. , Bercha Frank G. , Jordaan Ian
Published: December 2011

The new international code ISO 19906 "Petroleum and natural gas industries - Arctic offshore structures" [1] was published in December 2010 after more than nine years of development. ISO 19906 uses the limit states design approach. Compliance is based on ensuring that the action effects arising from each factored action combination do not exceed factored resistances. The partial action factors have been calibrated to reliability targets. This paper describes the philosophy behind the quantification and use of the reliability targets, the definition of the limit states and action combinations, the philosophy of principal and companion environmental actions, and how the calibrated values of the action factors were incorporated in the action combinations.

Introduction

The new ISO 19906 has been developed in Working Group 8 (WG8) of ISO Technical committee TC67/SC7 "Offshore structures". Experts from all arctic nations and from most other nations involved in the design of offshore structures in arctic and cold regions participated in WG8. Consequently, all the arctic nations and all European nations have undertaken to adopt ISO 19906 into their sets of national standards, and ISO 19906 is expected to be adopted worldwide for design of arctic offshore structures. This paper explains the design approach and underlying structural reliability levels in order to assist with application of the code in different ice covered environments and regulatory jurisdictions.

Reliability targets for arctic offshore structures have been used to calibrate the values of partial action factors for use in limit states action combinations, with particular focus on environmental actions arising from sea-borne ice, see Maes and Thomas [2] and OGP report 422 [3]. If these partial action factors are applied to Ultimate Limit State (ULS) and Abnormal (Accidental) Limit State (ALS) action combinations and the resulting action effects do not exceed factored resistances, the reliability targets are deemed to be achieved

Reliability Targets

"Reliability Target" as used in ISO 19906 is expressed as an annual probability of failure which is associated with global structural failure or with component failure leading to global structural failure. In common with the other ISO codes for offshore structures, namely ISO 19900 [4] and its associated standards, commonly known as the ISO 19900-series, ISO 19906 considers both life-safety and environmental protection through specifying three exposure levels, L1, L2 and L3, as defined in ISO 19902. [5].
Experience from Vessels Operating in Ice in the Double Acting Principle
Authors: Vocke Maximilian , Ranki Erkki , Uuskallio Arto , Niini Mikko , Wilkman Goran
Published: December 2011

Most of the traditional icebreakers have had good capability to run astern in ice even if the vessels are not designed for that. The development during the last 16 years has made it possible that running astern could be considered as the main way of operation in heavy ice conditions. The key to this development has been the use of azimuthing podded propulsion, which gives the vessel the benefits of both electric propulsion and excellent maneuverability. During these years there has been a number of vessels designed and built according to this operation principle. A lot of operation experience has been gained during dedicated full-scale ice trials and during practical operation of the ships. The possible propulsion devices today include the direct electric podded drives and mechanical azimuth drives.

This paper concentrates on the evolution of the concept, description of realized projects and operational experience of the double acting principle gained so far including information of the capability of the vessels in different ice conditions.

Background

First the development of the Azipod electric azimuth propulsion took all the attention in the beginning of the 1990ies [1]. However already the possibility of running astern in difficult ice conditions could be seen. Several projects were drafted and vessel concepts developed [2]but finally the Neste Oil's 106000 DWT tanker project built by Sumitomo in Japan in 2003 based on the concept developed by Aker Arctic's predecessor Kvaerner Masa-Yards Arctic Technology, [3, 4]. This project showed without any doubt that a vessel can be good both in open water and ice [5].

Double acting principle

In general it must be said that level ice breaking is only a small fraction of the total sailing time. The reason, why level ice is so often spoken about is that level ice thickness measurement is easy to perform and ship performance in level ice is easy to measure.
Behavior of Oil Spills in Ice and Implications for Arctic Spill Response
Authors: Dickins David
Published: December 2011

The paper reviews the history of research into the behavior spills in ice covered waters and documents our current state of knowledge, drawing on the findings from a number of milestone field experiments conducted over the past 40 years. In particular the paper focuses on the unique aspects of spill behavior in different ice regimes that can both hinder and benefit spill response, depending on the timing and type of release. With increasing interest in exploiting Arctic oil resources, the knowledge base summarized in this paper can be used to identify priority topics for future research and development.

There is an extensive background of research into all aspects of Arctic spill response and our level of understanding is extremely good in many areas, such as understanding how close pack ice contains the oil from spreading, how oil trapped in the ice through the winter is maintained in a fresh state, and how trapped oil is exposed on the ice surface in the spring. Key observations from large-scale field experiments are that the natural containment, reduced wave action and slower weathering in the presence of significant ice cover, can greatly extend the windows of opportunity and effectiveness for response operations such as burning and dispersant application. These benefits are not experienced with traditional response options relying on boom and skimmer systems where ice interference severely reduces the recovery effectiveness.

Future advances in our ability to respond to spills in ice will require a new approach to permitting experimental spills. The record shows that it is entirely possible to plan and execute experiments safely with no harm to the environment. Continued regulatory intransigence could jeopardize industry's ability to develop credible and effective contingency plans to permit future Arctic exploration and development activities.

Introduction and Background

The issue of oil spill clean-up in ice continues to grow in importance as exploration drilling outside of the traditional summer open water period becomes more and more technically feasible with advanced marine technology supported by active ice management and capable vessels. Exploiting this capability requires the operator to prepare a credible oil discharge contingency plan that covers the possibility (regardless of how remote) that a late-season blowout could lead to large volumes of oil trapped under moving ice and potentially drifting unrecovered through the winter. This is a fundamental issue that is now being considered through governmental hearings and commissions in the US and Canada prompted by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon incident. In order to understand the challenges of dealing with this scenario, it is important understand the different processes governing the likely behavior of oil in a variety of ice conditions and to assess our current state of knowledge in this area.
A Planning Model for Architecture and Operations
Authors: Bannova Olga , Bell Larry
Published: December 2011

This paper proposes a comprehensive reference model to support planning and design of architectures and operations in extreme environments with general applications to more traditional settings. The model presents a holistic systems approach that addresses such factors as risk assessment, system-operations integration, logistics and safety. Special emphasis is directed to human factors, transportation, environmental responsibility and technology readiness.

The paper draws upon previous SICSA research and design projects that involve remote deployments. These venues include Arctic and Antarctic research stations, ocean facilities and habitats in outer space. Common considerations include long-term confinement, psychological isolation and special health and safety issues.

Introduction

The Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture (SICSA) within the University of Houston's Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture has a long history of experience associated with comprehensive research, planning and design for habitation in extreme environments. These activities have involved human accommodations in space, offshore ocean facilities, polar research stations and shelters for disaster victims. Important issues common to these different settings include concerns about operational safety, efficient transportation to remote sites and rapid, easy means of construction under hostile climate conditions with constraints upon available labor, equipment and tools. Many of these projects apply advanced construction methods and material technologies that draw upon space program lessons. These and other more traditional architectural and planning pursuits also emphasize the use of energy-efficient and sustainable approaches to reduce operational costs and logistical resupply requirements.

Priority Service Market

SICSA is building upon its previous experiences with expanded attention to three general service markets that present similar needs and challenges:fossil fuel exploration and production operations;natural disaster management response applications;remote military theaters.

Particular emphasis is directed to site infrastructure and habitat accommodations for relatively substantial personnel populations ranging from hundreds to thousands of people where permanent, pre-existing facilities are lacking, and small, conventional tents or modular units are impractical. This plan responds to observed trends where petrochemical resources are being developed at increasingly remote, hostile locations; where tsunamis, hurricanes and other destructive natural forces are impacting large areas of increasing population densities; and where military troops are being deployed in remote parts of the world to confront growing terrorism threats.
A New Modularized Approach for Arctic Production Islands
Authors: Braun K.W. , Gunderson W.F. , Berg M.T.
Published: December 2011

This paper details the preliminary design of a patent-pending arctic production island. The system utilizes modularized sections assembled together as a stable, ice-resistant production platform. Details are incorporated into the system to provide ice resistance and minimize the effects of wave action. The platform will be supported by a combination of buoyancy and steel piles embedded into the seafloor below. Batter piles are incorporated into the foundation to provide increased lateral ice load capacity. The piles are also outfitted with specialized, fabricated SPIN FIN® pile tips to increase the vertical capacity and resilience of the pile.

The island components can be constructed with the topsides facilities in a dry dock and shipped to the site for assembly to minimize in-field offshore construction. Offshore assembly would consist of connecting the barge modules to assemble the island platform and then installing the piles through the prefabricated pile ports in the hull of the barge modules to anchor the island. Larger structures would likely best be installed and attached to the island in the fabrication facility. Smaller structures could be installed in the fabrication facility or in the field after the island foundation has been installed.

Introduction

Advances in engineering are required in order to develop resources in the offshore arctic. The Arctic represents the new frontier, and methods to access and extract resources will play heavily in future endeavors. Various types of structures have been proposed and employed to access offshore petroleum reserves in arctic waters. Previous design and construction has included artificial islands, floating drillships, spray islands, caisson retained islands (CRIs), and gravity-based structures (GBSs). This paper presents the preliminary design of a new alternative: a modularized pile-supported production island. Modularized arctic production islands would provide a cost effective, yet durable means to develop hydrocarbon facilities in the offshore arctic. This patent-pending "Arctic Island" consists of barge modules connected together and anchored by steel piles. The barge components may be composed of steel, concrete, or a combination of both.

The Arctic Island offers advantages over previous designs utilized to extract offshore petroleum resources in the Arctic. For example, artificial islands and CRIs have required substantial construction and facility development on site. The modularized sections of the Arctic Island allow partial to full assembly of the topsides structures in a temperate, easily accessible fabrication facility. The Arctic Island also allows year-round resource development. Floating drillships have limited facilities and may be limited to operational timeframes. Spray islands are created by building an ice pad on landfast ice sheets; therefore, these islands are also temporary and only available in winter months.