bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acquisition of an Elevated Pressure Core in a Gas Flooded Carbonate Oil Reservoir: Design and Operational Challenges
Authors: Al Saman Al Neaimi Mai , Tee Aaron Sin , Boyd Douglas , Al Shehhi Rashed , Abdel Aziz Mohamed Emad , Namboodiri K.M.N , Al Junaibi Hamad , Al Zaabi Mohamad , Al Braik Haitham , Ftes Suleiman , Medjiah Abdul Kader , Farouz Ameer , Gao Bo , Gay Mike , Tariq Syed M. , Fudge Blake , Collett Paul , Gill Tim , Anis Abdul-Hamid , Schipper Bas , MacDonell Sheldon
Published: April 2016

Pressure core is the gold standard of reservoir saturation determination retaining gas and oil in an enclosed container preventing hydrocarbon loss to the mud system during retrieval of the core to surface. The technique is underutilized in the oil industry due to safety concerns, short coring lengths (3 to 7 feet) per trip and small core diameters (1.6 to 2.6 inches). A new elevated pressure coring system addresses these concerns. The system does not maintain true formation pressure but reduces the core barrel pressure to less than 1,000 psia for safer working conditions on surface. Upon arrival at surface, the core barrel and accompanying gas/liquid collection canisters are blown down and gas/liquid volumes measured and analysed. Free oil is gathered and stored for later analyses. Core diameter is 4 inches and core length is 10 feet.

Zakum Development Company (ZADCO) operates a gas injection pilot in a large carbonate oil reservoir. There was a need to determine field remaining oil saturation after gas flood (ROSg) in a gas injection pilot. Pressure coring was selected as the best technology to obtain this data. This paper covers the planning and implementation of a successful elevated pressure coring operation in the U.A.E., the operational aspects, special core handling techniques, issues encountered and solved. Recommendations are made for future pressure coring operations. A follow up paper will cover the core and fluid analyses aspects.
First Successful Installation of Expandable Liner Hanger Technology in United Arab Emirates (UAE) for ADCO: Engagement and Innovation
Authors: Cardozo L. G. , Bin Shamlan A. M. , El Barbay A. Y. , Ramadan T. M. , Mohamed Z. , Abu-Aita I.
Published: April 2016

This paper discusses the application of an expandable liner hanger system in ADCO, which is the first expandable liner hanger set in the UAE. For ADCO, the majority of the liners run in its area can be classified as drilling liners that allow the well to be "cased off" at key points in the drilling sequence so that drilling can progress safely to its target depth. Due to the well’s configuration, mandatory requirements were established to deploy the liner at the desired position as well as to obtain proper isolation of both the formations and the liner lap to avoid compromising the well integrity.

During the comparison with conventional systems used by the operator, the expandable liner hangers (ELH) demonstrated to be a technology that simplifies the tool assembly as it incorporates the liner hanger body with an integral packer, tieback polished bore receptacle, and setting sleeve to connect the assembly to the packer. In other words, this tool does not have external components such as slips, hydraulic cylinders, or pistons. Instead, moving parts of the setting mechanism are contained in the setting tool assembly; thus, minimizing the risk for premature setting when compared to a conventional liner hanger. However, manufacturers have developed their own designs, with important differences between them. For this reason, deep study on the features of the selected model was conducted in order to understand not only the advantages but reliability, hazards, and mitigations.

One of the most relevant aspects was the fact that the selected ELH system stays in the unset (unexpanded) position during all cementing operation, so full cross-sectional bypass area is preserved throughout the process, which helped to minimize the increases on the equivalent circulating density (ECD). On the other hand, conventional liner hangers are typically set just prior to cementing operations, so the chance to improve the cement placement is reduced as the string remains static during cement displacement. Moreover, due to the nature of the job, integration with the Cementing Engineering Team was crucial to ensure all factors were properly evaluated ahead of execution.

Meticulous planning, as well as clear criteria for acceptance of the proposed ELH system that meets the company’s quality standards, were established by a multidisciplinary team that succeeded the challenge of deploying the first ELH of this type in UAE, proving its feasibility even in difficult well conditions, with minimum risk for the personnel and the operations, and, as added value, it delivered a new approach for well design for ADCO.
Use of Nano-Emulsion Surfactants During Hydraulic Fracturing Treatments
Authors: Al-Anazi M. S. , Al-Khaldi M. H. , Fuseni A. , Al-Marshad K. M.
Published: April 2016

Hydraulic fracturing has been extensively used as an efficient method to enhance the hydrocarbon production, especially in tight formations. However, this technique has been associated with long-lasting formation damage challenge due to fracturing fluid filtrate leakoff. According to Laplace equation, this fluid leakoff results in a phenomenon called water blockage due to capillary forces. Recent studies have shown that surfactants can be used as an additive to fracturing fluids and they will reduce the required pressure to displace the injected fracturing fluids. In this study, the performance of two new nano-emulsion surfactants has been investigated.

Nano-emulsion surfactant mixtures were prepared at different concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 5 gpt using field mixing water. Mixing water and representative field condensate samples were used to conduct both the surface tension and contact angle measurements at temperature range of 77-325°F. Laplace equation was used to calculate capillary pressure values based on surface tension and contact angle values.

The results based on this study have illustrated the effectiveness of nano-emulsion surfactants to recover the fracturing fluid filtrate during flowback. The performance of these surfactants was investigated as a function of several parameters such as surfactant concentration, soaking time, and temperature. In addition, this paper explored the adsorption behavior of these surfactants on formation rock and the effect of nano-emulsion surfactants on the rock wettability. Optimal design parameters of these nano-emulsion surfactants to achieve significant enhancement in injected fracturing fluid recovery are also discussed.
Successful Implementation of CO2 Energized Acid Fracturing Treatment in Deep, Tight and Sour Carbonate Gas Reservoir in Saudi Arabia that Reduced Fresh Water Consumption and Enhanced Well Performance
Authors: Malik Ataur R. , Dashash Alaa A. , Driweesh Saad M. , Noaman Yousef M. , Soriano Eduardo , Lopez Alfredo
Published: April 2016

Up to three thousand barrels of stimulation fluids are pumped during a single vertical fracture treatment in carbonate reservoir of Saudi Arabia with the objective of creating sufficient conductive reservoir contact for commercial production. The post-stimulation production performance in deep, tight, and sour carbonate gas reservoirs often does not meet expectations due to complex reservoir characterization and poor transmissibility. The post-stimulation cleanup period often takes much longer due to resistance in unloading the pumped fluids.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) with 30% foam quality (FQ) has been introduced for the first time during acid fracturing treatment in the tight, sour and high pressure, high temperature (HPHT) carbonate gas reservoir of Saudi Arabia to reduce consumption of fresh water, minimize reservoir damage, reduce the flowback period and eliminate the need for nitrogen lifting with coiled tubing (CT). The water and acid volume were reduced by one third through energizing the fluids system with CO2 during acid fracturing treatment in the candidate well. The Pad fluid was a zirconate crosslinked gel that was optimized for low pH to maintain stability in the presence of CO2. To minimize fluid leak-off and improve diversion effects, a chemical diverting system was included in the CO2 energized acid fracture treatment. A non-emulsifier foaming agent was used in the Pad and acid blends to create the desired emulsion with CO2. The post-fracture flowback period was reduced significantly and a 2.5 fold increase in the gas rate was realized.

The addition of liquid CO2 to HCl in quantities sufficient to produce emulsion allows live acid to retard and penetrate much deeper than HCl itself. The CO2 strips hydrocarbon from the rock and allows acid to effectively react to the rock surface. CO2 remains in the liquid or supercritical phase during injection mode and flows back in the gas phase over a wide range of temperature and pressure allowing pumped fluids to recover in fast and safe manner.

This paper is focused on laboratory tests of fluid systems, and the design, execution and evaluation of CO2 energized acid fracturing treatment, and a safe flowback strategy used for sour wells with high a concentration of CO2.
Tests in Ultra High Pressure of H2S
Authors: Gabetta G. , Pontarollo A. , Sgorlon S. , Zonta P.
Published: April 2016

The exploitation of fields with high H2S and/or CO2 content is nowadays of growing importance for oil companies. The presence of H2S and/or sulphur in production fluids can be responsible for both general and localized corrosion. However, the knowledge of materials behavior in plants handling those fluids is limited due to the difficulty in performing tests in such aggressive and dangerous environments. The so-called Nace Solution, used to assess Sulfide Stress Cracking susceptibility of steels, is a water-based solution simulating production fluids in equilibrium with one bar bubbling H2S gas. This solution does not simulate situations where High Pressure (HP) and Ultra High Pressure (UHP) of acid gas is present.

This paper describes tests performed in a laboratory with an autoclave designed to test up to a total pressure of 1000 bar of H2S and/or other gas mixtures, with and without the presence of water, to fully simulate the service environment.

Autoclave tests were performed on four point bend specimens of Carbon Steels, Stainless Steel and Corrosion Resistant Alloys at pressure up to 730 bar, with the aim at better understanding the effect of a small content of water in the corrosive properties of re-injected gas mixture. Results show that a small amount of water (1%) is enough to trigger damage – in the form of cracking - in Type 316 Stainless Steel. For Carbon and Low Alloy steel, there is competition between general and localized corrosion. The main finding however is that more work is needed to obtain a better understanding of the behaviour of high pressure H2S and CO2 mixtures; compliance of laboratory tests with field conditions is important towards materials selection.
Successful Application of Innovative Reversible Invert Emulsion Reservoir Drilling Fluid and Improved Filter-Cake Cleanup Agent Increased Sustained Well Productivity in Smart Multilateral Wells with Inflow Control Device and Smart Completion in High Mobility Reservoir, West Kuwait
Authors: Das Om Prakash , Al-Enezi Khalaf
Published: April 2016

Maximizing sustained well productivity from smart multilateral wells in heterogeneous reservoir completed with Inflow Control Device completion (ICD) and smart completion requires effective filter-cake cleanup to ensure uniform inflow contribution from entire horizontal section. The specially designed reversible invert emulsion Reservoir Drilling Fluid (RDF) along with filter-cake cleanup agent were utilized in drilling and completion of Kuwait's first Level-4 smart multilateral well in Burgan reservoir of west Kuwait. Further the reservoir is having vertically stacked thin channel sands associated with complex fault network makes drilling and completion of multilateral wells challenging and necessitated an innovative Reservoir Drilling Fluid and effective filter-cake cleanup to maximize the completion efficiency. Moreover the combination of high water mobility due to hydrocarbon viscosity ranging from 40 to 60 cP at reservoir conditions and fault network connected to aquifer causes severe premature water breakthrough. The smart multilateral wells have addressed premature water breakthrough problem and enhanced well productivity by facilitating the adequate reservoir management. The horizontal sections of smart multilateral wells were drilled with invert emulsion reservoir drilling fluid and achieved gauged hole which facilitated trouble free ICD completion installation along with large quantity swell packers. Novel filter cake cleanup agent was pumped immediately after running the ICD completion to change filter cake wettability from oil-wet to water-wet for uniform cleanup and thereby regained original reservoir permeability. This has eliminated the risk of formation impairment, ICD screen and nozzle plugging and established excellent well productivity. The well has achieved significantly increased sustained well productivity by having low wellbore skin. The paper covers the selection and design of reversible invert emulsion drilling fluid along with filter-cake cleanup system, well completion operations and long term well performance results.
To Boldly Go Where No Crane Has Gone Before
Authors: McGrath Keir , Fisher Stewart , Blench Peter
Published: April 2016

TOTAL Abu Al Bukhoosh (TOTAL ABK) is an Oil and Gas super complex located 180 km away from Abu Dhab. coastlines in the United Arab Emirates. Offshore platforms are well known to be challenging in regards to confined and cramped spaces with limited access for repairs, maintenance or interventions. The installation of a specific 220 meters- 14′ gas line required multiple connections and new fittings. However, these were outside the operational radius of the platform pedestal crane. In order to tackle this issue, an innovative and clever solution was identified with the use of multi functional crane able to combine compact size and heavy lifting power.

As a first time on an Middle East platform, a URW-376 UNIC mini crane was used and allowed this challenging lifting operation to be safely performed. The 12 barg 14′ gas line was swiftly installed over the side of the Work Over platform upper deck where no steel beams are available to place runway beams.

This paper presents in details the lessons learned and the overall benefit of this peculiar lifting operation that allowed all the gas line components to be installed in a timely and efficient manner although located in a critical zone 2 rated area. High level of mobility, 360 degrees radius and highly versatile operating range are all discussed and illustrates why, at TABK : "we like better our spider crane than spider man".
Geo-processing for Surface Development Optimization
Authors: Hewitt Anthony , Vidal Arnaud
Published: April 2016

Installation and development of surface infrastructures is more and more challenging and often occurs in complex and/or sensitive contexts.

In such situations manual flow-line routing assessment has to be replaced by computed solutions which are capable of taking into account lots of external constrains at the same time they honor internal parameters.

For new developing fields and more specifically onshore it is important to optimize as much as possible locations of surface installations to respect safety, environmental, societal and economic backdrops. Rationalization of infrastructure plans from scratch is also a way to prepare sustainable development for the future.

Within TOTAL, Geomatics discipline including use of Geographical Information Systems in combination with geo-processing tools offers appropriate integrated solutions. These tools require gathering multiple data such as Digital Elevation Models, slope models, satellite imageries and take into account spatial, operational and safety conditions, allowing data analysis, processing and comparison between scenarios.

Each object must be identified using a data structure type, either Raster or Vector allowing the use of two types of optimization algorithms: classical based on raster or vector data and heuristic based on raster and/or graph and interactive constrains. In addition to these Spatial and 3D analyst tools, more specific processing algorithms must be implemented.

On a case study this method allowed connecting all well-heads to a Central Processing facility (CPF) in a very severe environmental context; the proposed ‘Minimum Spanning Tree’ solution considerably reduced the environmental footprint and connecting costs. Generalizing more geo-processing tools and including more operational constraints proved to be even more useful for new developing fields and their early surface installations development. Main improvements are on production side, reducing flow-lines length and optimizing flow assurance.

Applications are wide open; this approach can take into account more constrains like existing installations, societal environment, geo-morphological features and relief. Therefore its consideration for onshore mature fields is an obvious way forward.

In the Digital Era, with the hike in data acquisition and Google Earth and GPS in any smart-phone, considering computed GIS techniques to drive and optimize our surface installation positioning is an innovation guarantying environment respectful and sustainable development for petroleum infrastructures.
Utilization of Metallic Sulfur/Nanocarbon Hybrids as a Transparent Conductive Film
Authors: Fujimori Toshihiko
Published: April 2016

One of the major issues in the petroleum industries is to find out a new way to utilize excessive amounts of elemental sulfur, which has been produced during the refinery process of petroleum. Despite the importance, its use is limited to being an inexpensive reagent (e.g., sulfuric acid, fertilizers, and vulcanization of rubbers). Here we introduce a way to utilize elemental surfur as a metal wire. With an aid of ongoing nanotechnology based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs), we successfully synthesize this new metallic phase of sulfur using one-dimensional channels of CNTs as a template (Fujimori et al., Nature Commun. 2013). The key phenomenon is the formation of monatomic sulfur chains, which are essential for carrying electric current along the chains. Since the presence of metallic sulfur improve electric conductivity of pristine CNTs, the ability of the sulfur/CNT hybrid material involves a wide range of practical applications including next-generation electric devices for solar cells, touch panels of smartphones, or superlight-weight electric cables. Here we will demonstrate the potential application of the sulfur/CNT nanomaterials as a transparent conductive film (TCF) used in solar cells or touch panels. Although Indium-Tin-Oxide (ITO) has been commonly used as a TCF, it is inevitable that depletion of indium, which is one of the rare metals required for sustaining contemporary society, will emerge as a world-wide issue in the near future. We believe that the metallic sulfur/carbon nanomaterial has a rich potential to overcome this issue, contributing to the sustainable society that does not rely on rare metals. Most importantly, the CNT-template method is easy to handle, thus promoting the future utilization of excess sulfur.
Not Under My Watch !
Authors: Al Blooshi Muna , Duguay Alexandra , Hewitt Anthony , Delattre Eric , Brieussel Celine , Al Saabri Hassan
Published: April 2016

TOTAL ABK has initiated many actions in order to improve preparedness for emergency situations related to oil pollution. Task forces, more stringent audits, stronger management system requirements and procedures, tightened reporting exigencies and overall top of the notch oil spill surveillance tools were successfully integrated.

Using creative thinking to tackle this paramount environmental topic, "Not under my Watch" is a project resulting in significant optimization of our strategy and Preparedness to response to accidental oil spill.

As a direct result from this project, we are in a better position to anticipate and have significantly strengthened our preparedness level to respond to any oil spill.
Engineered Fluid Solutions: Planning and Executing the Deepest HP/HT Well in Mediterranean Sea Offshore Egypt
Authors: D Angelo S. , Hamed M. , Attia M.
Published: April 2016

A challenging explorative deep high-pressure/high-temperature (HP/HT) well was planned and executed in the Mediterranean area of offshore Egypt. The expected bottomhole static temperature (BHST) and bottomhole pressure (BHP) were 400°F and 21,000 psi, respectively. To fulfill the requirements, a customized fluid was necessary during the planning phase. The main target was to achieve mud thermal stability. It was necessary to ensure longer mud exposure time during the extensive planned well-data acquisition of the explorative well to be drilled. Extensive laboratory work was required to develop a mud formulation with the lowest mud rheology. The aim was to build a suitable hydraulic model and manage equivalent circulating density (ECD) during the execution phase to achieve the smallest ECD impact. The drilling fluid was designed to help minimize pressure spikes resulting from the nature of the gel strengths when initiating circulation after downtime for connection for trips. Another fluid challenge was avoiding barite sag under HP/HT conditions to mitigate well-control issues during execution. During the planning phase, several laboratory tests were conducted using different base oils available in the market to deliver the best rheological model in accordance with the expected bottomhole temperature (BHT) and to achieve longer mud thermal stability, up to 168 hr static condition, at 392°F. The customization of the proper combination of high-performance additives and invert emulsion mud formulations was designed for a suitable fluid hydraulic model for each hole section, helping minimize the ECD in dynamic conditions as well as induced losses as potential causes of well-control issues. Drilling fluid, pressure, and temperature behavior were optimized during the planning phase. During the execution phase, over 516 days, operations never stopped to condition the fluid, and zero non-productive time (NPT) was recorded, confirming expectations under downhole conditions. All casing ran smoothly to the target depths; moreover, intensive logging programs, running nine days each, proved highly successful, including pressure points and fluid sampling.
In-situ Oil Shale Development in Jordan through ICP Technology
Authors: Meijssen Thomas , Emmen Jack , Fowler Tom
Published: April 2016

Globally, with a rapidly growing world population, increasing prosperity and improved access to reliable electricity the IEA expects the demand for energy on the planet to increase significantly in the next decadesi. Meeting this demand globally and in Jordan will be a formidable challenge and requires exploring for conventional hydrocarbons as well as tight / shale oil and gas resources. Jordan has one of the largest oil shale resources in the world and although previous attempts to harness this energy source have been made in Jordan, none have resulted in large scale production of energy from oil shale. In May 2009, Royal Dutch Shell plc ("Shell") signed an Oil Shale Concession Agreement to explore and evaluate the commercial potential of the deeper layers of Jordanian oil shale. Since then, the Jordan Oil Shale Company (JOSCO), a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell, has gathered seismic data over an area of 22, 270 km2 across the country and drilled/tested over 300 wells. JOSCO also established one of the most advanced geochemical and geological laboratories in the Middle East to analyze thousands of rock samples, and currently employs more than 200 people of which more than 95% are Jordanian. Being part of Shell provides JOSCO with access to a network of experts world-wide, providing invaluable technical know-how, operational expertise, cutting-edge research capabilities and global commercial insight. Shell's approach to oil shale development utilizes a technology called In-situ Conversion Process (ICP). This is different from conventional surface retorting methods and direct firing of oil shale for power generation, and is aimed at heating the oil shale by thermal conduction using a closely spaced array of horizontal heaters. JOSCO's current activities are focused on demonstrating the technical feasibility of ICP technology in Jordan. The first ICP field test (Jordan Field Experiment, JFE) has been designed and will aim to validate JOSCO's subsurface understanding of the ICP process. After the JFE, further piloting is required in Jordan before a commercial project is envisioned. When successful, oil shale can play an important role in supporting the Jordan's energy mix, and may also help encourage further benefits to Jordan's energy industry, economy and society in the future.
An Integrated Coordination Chart Considering Sand and Water Production and Its Application in Lifting Performance Analysis of Gas Wells
Authors: Li Yanlong , Dong Changyin , Zhang Qinghua , Feng Shengli
Published: April 2016

Production performance prediction is crucial to ensure prolonged, stable and efficient production of gas wells. But for wells that producing water and sand simultaneously, many complicated factors as sanding, water production, wellbore liquid-carrying, wellbore sand-carrying and downhole liquid-loading must be involved in besides normal coordinate curve, which may consists of inflow performance curve, working curve of pipeline and that of choke as well. Water seepage influence on inflow performance, dynamic critical sanding pressure drawdown curve and wellbore liquid-carrying and sand-carrying capacity are provided and discussed intensively in this documentation, based on normal production performance coordinate curve analysis of gas wells.

By analyzing the complicated production conditions provided above, an integrated coordination chart(ICC) is put forward specialized for gas wells that may produce water and sand, which contains all information revealed by normal production performance coordinate curve and any other sophisticated but essential curves or data for wells that producing water and sanding. The application results indicate that the integrated coordination chart is reliable in diagnosing the rationality of operating system and corresponding optimization of gas production rate and pressure, it can also be used to estimate reasonable size of pipeline and downhole choke and provide effective sand-control or water-plugging recommendations.

The integrated coordination chart has been used successfully in SeBei Gas field, China to predict production performance and homologous operating system adjustment for more than 60 wells, which include 15times sand removal operation, 5times sand-control operation and 40times adjustment of operating system. The application result showed a match degree of almost 90%.
Performance of a fixed-bed biofilm reactor with microbubble aeration in aerobic wastewater treatment
Authors: Zhang Lei , Liu Junliang , Liu Chun , Zhang Jing , Yang Jingliang
Published: April 2016

Microbubble aeration is supposed to be highly efficient for oxygen supply in aerobic wastewater treatment. In the present study, the performance of a fixed-bed biofilm reactor microbubble-aerated using a Shirasu porous glass (SPG) membrane system was investigated when treating synthetic municipal wastewater. The biofilm formation on the carriers was enhanced with microbubble aeration due to the strong adhesion of microbubbles to the solid surface. The dissolved oxygen concentration, the removals of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and nitrogen, and the oxygen utilization efficiency were influenced by the organic loading rate at a certain oxygen supply capacity. The relatively optimal organic loading rate was determined as 0.82 kgCOD/(m3 d) when the oxygen supply capacity was 0.93 kgO2/(m3 d), where COD and ammonia removal efficiencies were 91.7% and 53.9%, respectively. The corresponding SPG membrane area-based COD removal capacity was 6.88 kgCOD/(m2 d). The oxygen utilization efficiency of microbubble aeration was obviously higher compared to conventional bubble aeration. The simultaneous nitrification and denitrification occurred in the biofilm reactor and the total nitrogen removal efficiency of 50.4% was achieved under these conditions. In addition, the increase in air supply capacity of the SPG membrane system was suggested to improve its energy utilization efficiency.
Sap from various palms as a renewable energy source for bioethanol production
Authors: Nguyen Van , Harifara Rabemanolontsoa , Shiro Saka
Published: April 2016

Sap is a watery fluid that transports plant photosynthetic products towards
various tissues to support growth. Tapping palms for their sap is reported to
have originated from India approximately 4,000 years ago. Palm sap is rich in
sugars with some inorganics and nutrients, which are attractive components
for bioethanol production. Based on advances and current knowledge on the
availability, collection, yield, and exploitation of various palm saps, this
article evaluates their potential and sustainability as feedstocks for
bioethanol production.
Relaminarization of wall turbulence by high-pressure ramps at low Reynolds numbers
Authors: Song Kwonyul , Jovanovic Jovan , Al-Salaymeh Ahmed , Rauh Cornelia , Delgado Antonio
Published: April 2016

Reverse transition from the turbulent towards the laminar flow regime was
investigated experimentally by progressively increasing the pressure up to
400 MPa in a fully developed pipe flow operated with silicone oil as the
working fluid. Using hot-wire anemometry, it is shown indirectly that at low
Reynolds numbers a rapid increase in pressure modifies the turbulence
dynamics owing to the processes which induce the effects caused by fluid
compressibility in the region very close to the wall. The experimental
results confirm that under such circumstances, the traditional mechanism
responsible for self-maintenance of turbulence in wall-bounded flows is
altered in such a way as to lead towards a state in which turbulence cannot
persist any longer.
Kartagener’s syndrome: A case report
Authors: Tausan Djordje , Ristic Andjelka , Zvezdin Biljana
Published: April 2016

Introduction. Kartagener?s syndrome is a recessive autosomal disease which is mainly seen to affect ciliary movement. The symptoms of the syndrome are the consequence of the defective motility of the cilia found in the respiratory tract and that results with recurrent lung infections caused by mucus stasis in the bronchi. Case report. A 37-year-old married, male father of one child, presented with a history of productive cough, wheezing, dispnea, headache, temporary fever. In his 9th year of age, 1986, situs inversus, sinusitis and pectus excavatum were diagnosed. In 1994 he was operated for correction of pectus excavatum. Bronchial asthma was diagnosed in 2008 when he was 31. In the last 2 years he had episodes of breathlessness, wheezing, cough, expectoration, headache, fever and fast declining lung function. The patient was treated with combination of inhaled bronchodilatators (inhaled corticosteroids + long-acting ?-2 agonist), and occasional administration of antibiotics, oral prednisolone, mucolytics in episodes of exacerbations of disease over a period of 7?14 days. Conclusion. Treatment for patients with this syndrome has not been established yet, but it is important to control chronic lung infections and prevent declining of lung function.
Aortoesophageal and aortobronchial fistula caused by Candida albicans after thoracic endovascular aortic repair
Authors: Koncar Igor , Dragas Marko , Sabljak Predrag , Pesko Predrag , Markovic Miroslav , Davidovic Lazar
Published: April 2016

Introduction. Endovascular stent-graft placement has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery for the treatment of aortic aneurysms and dissections. There are few reports of stent graft infections and aortoenteric fistula after endovascular thoracic aortic aneurysm repair, and the first multicentric study (Italian survey) showed the incidence of about 2%. Case report. We presented a 69-year-old male patient admitted to our hospital 9 months after thoracic endovascular aortic repair, due to severe chest pain in the left hemithorax and arm refractory to analgesic therapy. Multislice computed tomography (MSCT) showed a collection between the stent graft and the esophagus with thin layers of gas while gastroendoscopy showed visible blood jet 28 cm from incisive teeth. Surgical treatment was performed in collaboration of two teams (esophageal and vascular surgical team). After explantation of the stent graft and in situ reconstruction by using Dacron graft subsequent esophagectomy and graft omentoplasty were made. After almost four weeks patient developed hemoptisia as a sign of aorto bronchial fistula. Treatment with implantation of another aortic cuff of 26 mm was performed. The patient was discharged to the regional center with negative blood culture, normal inflammatory parameters and respiratory function. Three months later the patient suffered deterioration with the severe weight loss and pneumonia caused by Candida albicans and unfortunately died. The survival time from the surgical treatment of aortoesophageal fistula was 4 months. Conclusion. Even if endovascular repair of thoracic aortic diseases improves early results, risk of infection should not be forgotten. Postoperative respiratory deterioration and finally hemoptisia could be the symptoms of another fistula.
Adipocyte-Specific Mineralocorticoid Receptor Overexpression in Mice Is Associated With Metabolic Syndrome and Vascular Dysfunction: Role of Redox-Sensitive PKG-1 and Rho Kinase
Authors: Nguyen Dinh Cat Aurelie , Antunes Tayze T. , Callera Glaucia E. , Sanchez Ana , Tsiropoulou Sofia , Dulak-Lis Maria G. , Anagnostopoulou Aikaterini , He Ying , Montezano Augusto C. , Jaisser Frederic , Touyz Rhian M.
Published: April 2016

Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) expression is increased in adipose tissue from obese individuals and animals. We previously demonstrated that adipocyte-MR overexpression (Adipo-MROE) in mice is associated with metabolic changes. Whether adipocyte MR directly influences vascular function in these mice is unknown. We tested this hypothesis in resistant mesenteric arteries from Adipo-MROE mice using myography and in cultured adipocytes. Molecular mechanisms were probed in vessels/vascular smooth muscle cells and adipose tissue/adipocytes and focused on redox-sensitive pathways, Rho kinase activity, and protein kinase G type-1 (PKG-1) signaling. Adipo-MROE versus control-MR mice exhibited reduced vascular contractility, associated with increased generation of adipocyte-derived hydrogen peroxide, activation of vascular redox-sensitive PKG-1, and downregulation of Rho kinase activity. Associated with these vascular changes was increased elastin content in Adipo-MROE. Inhibition of PKG-1 with Rp-8-Br-PET-cGMPS normalized vascular contractility in Adipo-MROE. In the presence of adipocyte-conditioned culture medium, anticontractile effects of the adipose tissue were lost in Adipo-MROE mice but not in control-MR mice. In conclusion, adipocyte-MR upregulation leads to impaired contractility with preserved endothelial function and normal blood pressure. Increased elasticity may contribute to hypocontractility. We also identify functional cross talk between adipocyte MR and arteries and describe novel mechanisms involving redox-sensitive PKG-1 and Rho kinase. Our results suggest that adipose tissue from Adipo-MROE secrete vasoactive factors that preferentially influence vascular smooth muscle cells rather than endothelial cells. Our findings may be important in obesity/adiposity where adipocyte-MR expression/signaling is amplified and vascular risk increased.
Fasting Plasma Insulin Concentrations Are Associated With Changes in Hepatic Fatty Acid Synthesis and Partitioning Prior to Changes in Liver Fat Content in Healthy Adults
Authors: Pramfalk Camilla , Pavlides Michael , Banerjee Rajarshi , McNeil Catriona A. , Neubauer Stefan , Karpe Fredrik , Hodson Leanne
Published: April 2016

Resistance to the action of insulin affects fatty acid delivery to the liver, fatty acid synthesis and oxidation within the liver, and triglyceride export from the liver. To understand the metabolic consequences of hepatic fatty acid synthesis, partitioning, oxidation, and net liver fat content in the fasted and postprandial states, we used stable-isotope tracer methodologies to study healthy men and women with varying degrees of insulin resistance before and after consumption of a mixed meal. Subjects were classified as being normoinsulinemic (NI) (fasting plasma insulin <11.2 mU/L, n = 18) or hyperinsulinemic (HI) (fasting plasma insulin >11.2 mU/L, n = 19). Liver fat content was similar between HI and NI individuals, despite HI subjects having marginally more visceral fat. However, de novo lipogenesis was higher and fatty acid oxidation was lower in HI individuals compared with NI subjects. These data suggest that metabolic pathways promoting fat accumulation are enhanced in HI but, paradoxically, without any significant effect on liver fat content when observed in healthy people. This is likely to be explained by increased triglyceride secretion as observed by hypertriglyceridemia.
Effects of laser beam spatial distribution on laser-material interaction
Authors: Lee Dongkyoung , Mazumder Jyotirmoy
Published: April 2016

The efficiency of any laser materials processing depends on the efficient energy transfer from the laser to a substrate. One of the critical factors in the process is the spatial distribution or the “mode” of the laser beam. Although an inverse Bremsstrahlung initiates the photon to electron energy transfer, a major part of the process is transport phenomena created by the absorbed energy. A mathematical model for transport phenomena during laser materials interaction is developed that includes multiple reflections, capillary and thermocapillary forces, recoil pressure, temperature distribution, melt pool flow, and phase changes. This model simulates interaction between a CO2 laser (λ = 10.6 μm) with four different spatial distributions and iron. The results of a simulation for fundamental understanding of this laser-material interaction are presented in this paper. First, overall keyhole behaviors are compared in terms of response time, penetration hole geometry, and absorptivity. Furthermore, a dimensionless parameter is developed to examine keyhole collapse quantitatively. Finally, velocity, temperature, and, intensity fields are analyzed.
Numerical simulation of multi-phase phenomena in IVR related processes
Authors: Cheng X.
Published: April 2016

IVR (in-vessel retention) is one of the severe accident mitigation measures, which is widely applied in the advanced light water reactors (LWRs) such as KERENA of AREVA, AP1000 of Westinghouse and CAP1400 of SNPTC, and attracts extensive interests of the German and Chinese nuclear scientists. The ultimate target of IVR is to keep the core melt inside the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) and to provide cooling capability via water flowing outside the RPV, the so called external reactor vessel cooling (ERVC). This paper summarizes some activities ongoing in both KIT and SJTU (Shanghai Jiao Tong University) with a few results examples.
Technological status of reactor coolant pumps in generation III+ pressurized nuclear reactors
Authors: Brecht B. , Bross S.
Published: April 2016

KSB has been developing and producing pumps for thermal power plants for nearly 90 years. Consequently, KSB also started to develop and manufacture pumps for all kinds of nuclear power plants from the very beginning of the civil use of nuclear energy. This is especially true for reactor coolant pumps for pressurized water reactors. For the generation of advanced evolutionary reactors (Generation III+ reactors), KSB developed an advanced shaft seal system which is also able to fulfill the requirements of station blackout conditions. The tests in the KSB test rigs, which were successfully completed in December 2015, proved the full functionality of the new design. For generation III+ passive plant reactors KSB developed a new reactor coolant pump type called RUV, which is based on the experience of classic reactor coolant pumps and reactor internal pumps. It is a very compact, hermetically sealed vertical pump-motor unit with a wet winding motor. A full scale prototype successfully passed the 1st stage qualification test program in October 2015.
Design and safety analysis of the helium cooled solid breeder blanket for CFETR
Authors: Wang S. , Zhou G. , Lv Z. , Jin C. , Chen H.
Published: April 2016

This paper reports the design and safety analysis results of the helium cooled solid breeder blanket of the Chinese Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR). Materials selection and basic structure of the blanket have been presented. Performance analysis including neutronics analysis and thermo-mechanical analysis has shown good results. And the safety analysis of the blanket under Loss Of Coolant Accident (LOCA) conditions has been described. Results showed the current design can deal well with the selected accident scenarios.
Qualification of CFD-models for multiphase flows
Authors: Lucas D.
Published: April 2016

While Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is already an accepted industrial tool for single phase flows it is not yet mature for two-phase flows. For this reason the qualification of CFD for reactor safety relevant applications which involve multiphase flows is a present topic of research. At the CFD division of Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) hereby beside an application-oriented model development and validation also more generic investigations are done. Thus, the baseline model strategy aims on the consolidation of the CFD-modelling for multiphase to enable reliable predictions for well-defined flow pattern in future. In addition the recently developed GENTOP-concept broadens the range of applicability of CFD. Different flow morphologies including transitions between them can be considered in frame of this concept.
Severe accident research activities at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR)
Authors: Wilhelm P. , Jobst M. , Schäfer F. , Kliem S.
Published: April 2016

In the frame of the nuclear safety research program of the Helmholtz Association HZDR performs fundamental and applied research to assess and to reduce the risks related to the nuclear fuel cycle and the production of electricity in nuclear power plants. One of the research topics focuses on the safety aspects of current and future reactor designs. This includes the development and application of methods for analyses of transients and postulated accidents, covering the whole spectrum from normal operation till severe accident sequences including core degradation. This paper gives an overview of the severe accident research activities at the Reactor Safety Division at the Institute of Resource Ecology.
High temperature reactors for cogeneration applications
Authors: Verfondern K. , Allelein H.-J.
Published: April 2016

There is a large potential for nuclear energy also in the non-electric heat market. Many industrial sectors have a high demand for process heat and steam at various levels of temperature and pressure to be provided for desalination of seawater, district heating, or chemical processes. The future generation of nuclear plants will be capable to enter the wide field of cogeneration of heat and power (CHP), to reduce waste heat and to increase efficiency. This requires an adjustment to multiple needs of the customers in terms of size and application. All Generation-IV concepts proposed are designed for coolant outlet temperatures above 500 °C, which allow applications in the low and medium temperature range. A VHTR would even be able to cover the whole temperature range up to approx. 1 000 °C.
Thermohydraulic safety issues for liquid metal cooled systems
Authors: Gerbeth G. , Eckert S. , Stefani F.
Published: April 2016

In this paper recent developments of various techniques for single-phase and two-phase flow measurements with relevance to liquid metal cooled systems will be presented. Further, the status of the DRESDYN platform for large-scale experiments with liquid sodium is sketched.
Tea Party Toys? Classical Kisalian Grave Goods from the Upemba (D.R. Congo)
Authors: de Maret Pierre
Published: April 2016

The continuous Iron Age sequence that connects the 10th century Kisalian in central Africa to the present day inhabitants of the area, the Luba, provides a rare opportunity to link archaeological data to ethnographic observations. Numerous Kisalian graves reflect the elaborate rituals and beliefs and the complex socioeconomic organization of that period. One of its intriguing aspects is the extensive use of various miniature objects as grave goods, for children and adults. The widespread Luba practice of making miniature objects for their children, as well as in connection with the spiritual world, is thus likely to date back many centuries and testifies to the symbolic qualities of miniatures.
Issues in the Integration of Educational Technology into English Language Teaching Programme: An Empirical Study
Authors: Ali Md Maksud
Published: April 2016

Technology, as everybody will agree, is increasingly getting involved in language education. In teaching English as an International Language (EIL), as a matter of fact, there is an apparent need for integrating technology into English Language Teaching (ELT) education. This need has eventually brought about a new scope for ELT in the form of a new genre: Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL). Following a Mixed Method Approach, this study investigates some of the issues relating to the use of CALL in the Department of English Language and Literature (ELL) at International Islamic University Chittagong (IIUC). The findings indicate some barriers that seem to impede the integration and the implementation of CALL in the department.IIUC Studies Vol.10 & 11 December 2014: 145-156
From Self Banishing Life to Life Banishing Self: The Prominent Causality and Lady Macbeths Tragic Downfall
Authors: Uddin Md Abu Saleh Nizam
Published: April 2016

Lady Macbeth of Macbeth is one of the most widely discussed characters created by Shakespeare. In the drama, just after Macbeth's disclosure to her as regards the witches' prophecy, she decides to pursue the shortest way to reach her goal within the shortest possible time. She instantly plans to kill King Duncan to enable Macbeth to ascend the Scottish throne. In this process she ultimately plans to have her share in power and prestige with her husband. To prepare herself for the horrible act of the murder, Lady Macbeth completely rejects natural and vital contents and functions of her soul or self. It is the dreadful banishment of self from life. It is tantamount to a manifold distortion of her feminine and human soul. She succeeds in her attempt only to experience the unbearable weight of regret and remorse that finally causes her to punish herself terribly in her own morose conditions which is lifes banishment from self, a downfall of colossal magnitude. This article aims at understanding the significance of this issue by studying the functioning of Lady Macbeths soul from the perspective of philosophy. This will also be done and by juxtaposing her with characters of similar nature from some of the great literary works.IIUC Studies Vol.10 & 11 December 2014: 217-230