bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saffan (CT 1341) as an anaesthetic agent for the budgerigar Melopsittacus undulatus
Authors: Curtis R. , Jemmett Janet E. , Hendy P. G.
Published: October 2008

Saffan* (CT 1341) was administered to budgerigars by intramuscular or intraperitoneal injection at dose rates ranging from 16 mg/kg to 156 mg/kg total steroid.

Deep injection into the pectoral muscle mass was easier and safer than intraperitoneal injection and gave more consistent results. Duration of anaesthesia was similar with both routes but recovery times tended to be longer after intramuscular injection; for example by this route a dose rate of 36 mg/kg gave induction, anaesthesia and injection‐to‐perching times averaging 4.3, 12.7 and 51.6 minutes, respectively, compared with 6.6, 13.3 and 42.7 minutes for the intraperitoneal route. Intramuscular injection was a very safe procedure, deaths occurring only at 156 mg/kg. No adverse or cumulative effects were observed in birds anaesthetized on several occasions and no significant lesions were noted in histological sections of injected muscle.

The maintenance of an adequate environmental temperature during anaesthesia and recovery is considered essential to prevent hypothermia.
Tracheal obstruction due to a nodular hyperplastic tracheitis in a dog
Authors: De Rick A. , Van Bree H. , Hoorens J. , Mattheeuws D.
Published: October 2008

A case of a hyperplastic tracheitis of unknown aetiology is recorded. The physical, radiographic, bronchoscopic and histopathological findings are described and discussed.
Silicate renal calculi in Kenyan dogs
Authors: Brodey R. S. , Thomson R. , Sayer P. , Eugster Barbara
Published: October 2008

Renal calculi were detected in 124 (53%) of 241 native Kenyan dogs during a necropsy survey for Spirocerca lupi infection. Affected kidneys were grossly normal but histologically pyelitis was present in 33% of the dogs. Over 50% of the stones were bilateral. Most were small and yellowish, the largest one was 2.5 cm. One native dog had a cystic calculus that obstructed its bladder.

Chemical analysis of the calculi revealed only traces of magnesium and phosphate. Emission spectrum studies identified the calculi as magnesium calcium aluminum silicate.

Decreased water intake or increased insensitive water loss do not seem to be important causative factors. Silica levels in water and maize should be determined.
Blood oxygen and carbon dioxide tensions in normal dogs and in dogs with respiratory failure
Authors: Clark W. T. , Jones B. R. , Clark J.
Published: October 2008

Arterial blood samples were obtained from thirty normal conscious dogs breathing air. The mean values and standard deviations recorded were PaO2 101.3±5.6 mmHg, PaCO2 34.0±3.9 mmHg, oxygen saturation 93.8 ±1.2%, oxygen content 19.3 ± 1.8 ml/100 ml. Ten dogs with respiratory problems were also examined and of these animals seven had lower than normal oxygen tensions while three had carbon dioxide levels higher than those found in healthy dogs. It was concluded that, in severe respiratory disease, measurement of arterial oxygen tension gives a useful assessment of respiratory failure in dogs.
Ultrasonographic examination of injuries to the Achilles tendon in dogs and cats
Authors: Kramer M. , Gerwing M. , Michele U. , Schimke E. , Kindler S.
Published: October 2008

The value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of lesions of the Achilles tendon was investigated in 42 dogs and seven cats. A standardised four‐part ultrasonographic examination was established. Linear transducers with a frequency of more than 7‐5 MHz were used. Ultrasonography allowed identification and differentiation of total ruptures and the differentiation of partial ruptures into deep or superficial ruptures, or those comprising muscular tears. The healing process could be monitored and imaged using this technique. Suture material was readily visible in surgically treated cases. Displacement of the superficial digital flexor tendon could be identified. In such cases, the tendon tissue was seen either medially or laterally to the calcaneus. The healing process of the Achilles tendon could also be documented using ultrasonography. However, it was not possible to determine the age of the injury and the exact end of the healing process. Ultrasonography therefore proved to be an excellent diagnostic method for imaging lesions of the Achilles tendon and associated injuries in dogs and cats. After physical examination, the technique should be the next logical step in the evaluation of a suspected injury to the Achilles tendon.
Fibrodysplasia ossificans in a German shepherd dog
Authors: Guilliard M. J.
Published: October 2008

Bilateral cervical heterotopic ossification, associated with a thoracic limb lameness, occurred in an adult German shepherd dog. One of the lesions, thought to be the cause of the lameness, was surgically removed and the lameness resolved. The lesion was classified morphologically as fibrodysplasia ossificans. A similar, smaller lesion was present over the cranial distal scapular border. The causes of ectopic ossification, as described in the veterinary literature, are reviewed and compared with myositis ossificans in humans. Non‐progressive fibrodysplasia ossificans has been described in cats, but this appears to be the first report in the dog. It is postulated that the heterotopic ossification resulted from the metaplastic change of calcinosis circumscripta lesions.
Leeching as initial treatment in a cat with polycythaemia Vera
Authors: Net C. S. , Arnoldq P. , Glaus T. M.
Published: October 2008

Polycythaemia Vera was diagnosed in a three‐year‐old domestic shorthaired cat referred because of seizures and a high packed cell volume (PCV). Laboratory examination revealed severe erythrocytosis (PCV 79 per cent). Diagnosis was reached by excluding causes for relative and secondary absolute polycythaemia. As phlebotomy proved impossible for initial treatment due to hyperviscosity, four leeches were used to suck blood and the PCV was consequently reduced to 64 per cent. A further 24 hours later, when bleeding at the sites of sucking had stopped, the PCV was 56 per cent. Long‐term management of the condition was achieved with hydroxyurea (100 mg/cat once daily) and intermittent phlebotomy. Initial treatment using leeches in cases of polycythaemia Vera is a simple, non‐invasive, well tolerated and effective method where phlebotomy is not possible.
Methods and models to determine perinatal status of Florida manatee carcasses
Authors: Schwarz Lisa K.
Published: October 2008

Abstract

Differences in perinatal mortality can be indicators of differences in physiology, behavior, toxicology, population dynamics, and ecology of species and individuals. Extensive data collected under the Florida Manatee Carcass Recovery Program provide important information about manatee perinatal mortality. However, early age at death can be difficult to determine for often highly decomposed carcasses. Here, I provide quantitative methods to identify perinatal status for manatee carcasses. First, perinatal and nonperinatal mortality were defined based on physiological indicators. After review of necropsy reports, specific length classes became clear indicators of perinatal status: carcasses <82‐cm long were always perinatal, and carcasses >160‐cm long were always nonperinatal. Using data from carcasses 82–160 cm long of known perinatal status, Bayesian models quantify the relationship among age at death, carcass length, and carcass recovery month. The models predict the perinatal status of carcass 82–160 cm long when physiological indicators are unavailable. Overall, perinatal status could be determined for 98.2% of carcasses collected from 1978 to 2005. Initial examination of the fraction of perinatal mortalities within the entire carcass sample reveals interesting spatial and temporal patterns that warrant further analyses.
Determining the sex of bottlenose dolphins from Doubtful Sound using dorsal fin photographs
Authors: Rowe Lucy E. , Dawson Stephen M.
Published: October 2008

Abstract

Sexing cetaceans usually requires time‐consuming observation, or genetic sexing via biopsy sampling or skin swabbing. We developed a method to determine the sex of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops sp.) in Doubtful Sound, Fiordland, using laser‐metric dorsal fin photographs. From dorsal fin photographs of 43 bottlenose dolphins of known sex (25 females, 18 males) we analyzed the shape, proportion of fin area covered in scarring and epidermal lesions, and the number of fin nicks. Males had significantly higher rates of scarring (P < 0.001) and dorsal fin nicks (P < 0.01) than females, whereas the severity of epidermal lesions was higher in females (P < 0.05). A logistic regression applied to all measured variables, and measurements of dorsal fin size, indicated that the proportion of dorsal fin scarring (P < 0.001), number of fin nicks (P < 0.01), and dorsal fin surface area (P < 0.01) were significant variables and together correctly predicted the sex of 93% (40/43) of the dolphins. The classification function may not be applicable to other populations due to geographic variation in bottlenose dolphin morphology and social structure. The method is quick and noninvasive to apply, and further increases the value of dorsal fin photo‐identification pictures.
Function of ROC4 in the Efficient Repair of Photodamaged Photosystem II in Arabidopsis†
Authors: Cai Wenhe , Ma Jinfang , Guo Jinkui , Zhang Lixin
Published: October 2008

ROC4 is the only cyclophilin in the chloroplast stroma. Here, we used the T‐DNA knockout mutant of roc4 to study the physiological role of ROC4 in vivo in Arabidopsis thaliana. Our results showed that ROC4 is not required for the biogenesis and functional operation of photosystem II (PSII). However, growth in greenhouse and PSII activity, as detected by photoinhibition measurements showed increased sensitivity to high light irradiance in the mutant. In the presence of chloroplast protein synthesis inhibitor lincomycin, which blocks de novo protein synthesis and thus the repair of PSII, wild‐type and mutant plants showed a similar extent of inactivation of PSII activity. The recovery of PSII activity in roc4 leaves from photoinhibition is also impaired compared with that of wild‐type plants. Immunoblot analysis showed that the degradation of PSII reaction center proteins occurred at a similar rate in the presence of lincomycin in wild‐type and mutant plants. Thus, these results suggest that ROC4 functions in the repair of photodamaged PSII.
Laboratory findings in CD4(+) large granular lymphocytoses
Authors: OLTEANU H. , KARANDIKAR N. J. , ESHOA C. , KROFT S. H.
Published: October 2008

Large granular lymphocytic (LGL) leukemia is an uncommon disorder of mature T or natural killer (NK) cells. Most T‐LGL proliferations are CD3(+)/CD8(+), although rare CD4(+) clonal T‐LGL expansions have been reported. We report the clinicopathologic features of eight patients with aberrant CD4(+), cytotoxic T‐cell lymphocytoses. Median follow‐up was 29 months (range 8–100), during which all were alive without requirement for therapy. Four of eight patients had an additional malignancy; none had a history of rheumatoid arthritis, lymphadenopathy or hepatosplenomegaly. Morphologic expansions of granulated lymphocytes were evident in 6/8. All had immunophenotypically aberrant populations of CD4(+) T cells with uniform, moderate or bright CD56. Seven of eight expressed CD57, and four were CD8(partial dim +). Abnormal levels of expression of two or more T‐cell antigens were seen in all cases. All tested cases were Tγ PCR positive. Our results support that CD4(+) T‐LGL lymphocytosis is a clonal disorder with clinicopathologic characteristics distinct from the more common CD8(+) variant.
Long‐Term Streamflow Response to Climatic Variability in the Loess Plateau, China1
Authors: Wang Shengping , Zhang Zhiqiang , Sun Ge , McNulty Steven G. , Zhang Huayong , Li Jianlao , Zhang Manliang
Published: October 2008

Abstract:  The Loess Plateau region in northwestern China has experienced severe water resource shortages due to the combined impacts of climate and land use changes and water resource exploitation during the past decades. This study was designed to examine the impacts of climatic variability on streamflow characteristics of a 12‐km2 watershed near Tianshui City, Gansu Province in northwestern China. Statistic analytical methods including Kendall’s trend test and stepwise regression were used to detect trends in relationship between observed streamflow and climatic variables. Sensitivity analysis based on an evapotranspiration model was used to detect quantitative hydrologic sensitivity to climatic variability. We found that precipitation (P), potential evapotranspiration (PET) and streamflow (Q) were not statistically significantly different (p > 0.05) over the study period between 1982 and 2003. Stepwise regression and sensitivity analysis all indicated that P was more influential than PET in affecting annual streamflow, but the similar relationship existed at the monthly scale. The sensitivity of streamflow response to variations of P and PET increased slightly with the increase in watershed dryness (PET/P) as well as the increase in runoff ratio (Q/P). This study concluded that future changes in climate, precipitation in particular, will significantly impact water resources in the Loess Plateau region an area that is already experiencing a decreasing trend in water yield.
Effects of Land‐Use and Land‐Cover Change on Evapotranspiration and Water Yield in China During 1900‐20001
Authors: Liu Mingliang , Tian Hanqin , Chen Guangsheng , Ren Wei , Zhang Chi , Liu Jiyuan
Published: October 2008

Abstract:  China has experienced a rapid land‐use/cover change (LUCC) during the 20th Century, and this process is expected to continue in the future. How LUCC has affected water resources across China, however, remains uncertain due to the complexity of LUCC‐water interactions. In this study, we used an integrated Dynamic Land Ecosystem Model (DLEM) in conjunction with spatial data of LUCC to estimate the LUCC effects on the magnitude, spatial and temporal variations of evapotranspiration (ET), runoff, and water yield across China. Through comparisons of DLEM results with other model simulations, field observations, and river discharge data, we found that DLEM model can adequately catch the spatial and seasonal patterns of hydrological processes. Our simulation results demonstrate that LUCC led to substantial changes in ET, runoff, and water yield in most of the China’s river basins during the 20th Century. The temporal and spatial patterns varied significantly across China. The largest change occurred during the second half century when almost all of the river basins had a decreasing trend in ET and an increasing trend in water yield and runoff, in contrast to the inclinations of ET and declinations of water yield in major river basins, such as Pearl river basin, Yangtze river basin, and Yellow river basin during the first half century. The increased water yield and runoff indicated alleviated water deficiency in China in the late 20th Century, but the increased peak flow might make the runoff difficult to be held by reservoirs. The continuously increasing ET and decreasing water yield in Continental river basin, Southwest river basin, and Songhua and Liaohe river basin implied regional water deficiency. Our study in China indicates that deforestation averagely increased ET by 138 mm/year but decreased water yield by the same amount and that reforestation averagely decreased ET by 422 mm/year since most of deforested land was converted to paddy land or irrigated cropland. In China, cropland‐related land transformation is the dominant anthropogenic force affecting water resources during the 20th Century. On national average, cropland expansion was estimated to increase ET by 182 mm/year while cropland abandonment decreased ET by 379 mm/year. Our simulation results indicate that urban sprawl generally decreased ET and increased water yield. Cropland managements (fertilization and irrigation) significantly increased ET by 98 mm/year. To better understand LUCC effects on China’s water resources, it is needed to take into account the interactions of LUCC with other environmental changes such as climate and atmospheric composition.
Evapotranspiration in the Meso‐Scale Forested Watersheds in Minjiang Valley, West China1
Authors: Zhang Linyan , Jiang Hong , Wei Xiaohua , Zhu Qiuan , Liu Shirong , Sun Pengsen , Liu Jingtao
Published: October 2008

Abstract:  Information on evapotranspiration (ET) can help us understand water balance, particularly in forested watersheds. Previous studies in China show that ET was relatively low (30‐40% of total precipitation) in the Minjiang Valley located in the upper reach of the Yangtze River Basin. However, this conclusion was derived from research on small‐scale watersheds (<100 km2). The objective of this paper was to present ET information on meso‐scale watersheds in the Minjiang Valley. Four meso‐scale watersheds (1,700‐5,600 km2) located in the Minjiang Valley were used to estimate ET using the water balance approach. We first generated forest vegetation variables (coniferous forest percentage, forest cover percentage, and derived forest vegetation index) using remote sensing data. Landsat 5 TM satellite images, acquired on June 26, 1994, were selected for the vegetation classification. Actual annual ET was calculated based on 11‐year estimated precipitation and measured streamflow data (1992‐2002). We also calculated potential ET (PET) using an improved Thornthwaite model for all four watersheds for the period of 1992‐1998. PET can provide additional information about potential capacity of water flux to atmosphere in the region. Seasonal (dry and rainy) PET and ET for all studied watersheds were also estimated for comparison purposes as the water balance approach, at shorter than annual scales, would likely provide inaccurate estimates of ET. The dominant vegetations in the Minjiang Valley were grasslands, conifer forests, and shrub‐lands. Our results confirmed that both ET and PET for three studied meso‐scale watersheds in the Minjiang Valley is relatively low (39.5‐43.8 and 28.2‐47.7% for ET and PET, respectively), with an exception of ET in the Yuzixi watershed being 71.1%. This result is generally consistent with previous research at small watershed scales. Furthermore, the low ET across various scales in the Minjiang Valley may be related to the unique deeply cut valley environment.
Tracheostomy tube manometry: evaluation of speaking valves, capping and need for downsizing
Authors: Johnson Douglas Clark , Campbell Stacy Lynn , Rabkin Judith Dawn
Published: October 2008

Introduction:  Readiness to speak is a major problem for many tracheostomized patients. Evaluation for tracheostomy tube capping or speaking valve is often subjective.

Objectives:  We first wanted to assess whether there were differences among speaking valves. We developed a care pathway for tracheostomy tube evaluation and management including manometry, which we wanted to evaluate.

Methods:  Three different speaking valves were assessed using manometry and measuring dyspnea in 21 patients. Subsequently, 100 consecutive patients referred for tracheostomy tube evaluation in a long‐term acute‐care rehabilitation hospital were studied using our care pathway with manometry before and after tracheostomy tube changes.

Results:  Inspiratory pressures differed among the speaking valves. Borg scale was higher among patients with high expiratory pressures. Of the 100 patients, following our care pathway, speech (speaking valve or capping) was recommended for 78 patients with their initial tube, and for 93 patients within 2 days of their initial evaluation. Tracheostomy tube downsizing was recommended in 94 patients. Downsizing led to significant reductions in airway pressures. Capping was initially recommended for 12 patients and for 71 following downsizing. Women had higher pressures than men for the same size tubes.

Conclusion:  Tracheostomy tube manometry is very helpful in objectively guiding recommendations for speaking valve use, capping, and changing tracheostomy tubes. Speech is an early recommendation for most patients.

Please cite this paper as: Johnson DC, Campbell SL and Rabkin JD. Tracheostomy tube manometry: evaluation of speaking valves, capping and need for downsizing. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2009; 3: 8–14.
Giant solitary fibrous tumour of the pleura: a rare but usually benign intrathoracic neoplasm
Authors: Bodtger Uffe , Pedersen Jesper Holst , Skov Birgit Guldhammer , Clementsen Paul
Published: October 2008

Background:  Low forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and low performance status usually preclude surgical treatment of lung neoplasms. Earlier case reports have suggested that curative, safe surgery is possible in extrapulmonal intrathoracic neoplasms.

Methods:  A case report of an 83‐year‐old women with progressing dyspnoea secondary to a huge left‐side neoplasm.

Results:  Work‐up reveal an FEV1 of 0.4 L, and a giant solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura. The tumor was surgically removed in toto without complications: weighting approximately 3 kg, and benign histology. The patient was without dyspnoea at discharge and at 1‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion:  Safe and curative surgery is possible in patients with extrapulmonal neoplasm despite poor FEV1.

Please cite this paper as: Bodtger U, Pedersen JH, Skov BG and Clementsen P. Giant solitary fibrous tumour of the pleura: a rare but usually benign intrathoracic neoplasm. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2009; 3: 109–111.
Stable bronchiectasis is associated with low serum L‐ficolin concentrations
Authors: Kilpatrick David Chalmers , Chalmers James Duncan , MacDonald Shirley Lynn , Murray Maeve , Mohammed Ali , Hart Simon Paul , Matsushita Misao , Hill Adam
Published: October 2008

Background and Aims:  Bronchiectasis is a common chronic respiratory condition with recurrent cough and sputum production and recurrent chest infections. It is characterised by pathological dilatation of the bronchi thought to result from infection and inflammation. It was hypothesised that impaired innate immunity might influence susceptibility to this disease process. The aim of the present study was to look for an association between bronchiectasis and insufficiency of either mannan‐binding lectin (MBL) or L‐ficolin.

Materials and Methods:  MBL and L‐ficolin were measured by Enzyme‐linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) in sera from 119 clinically stable bronchiectasis patients, and compared with 43 age‐matched disease controls admitted to hospital with community‐acquired pneumonia, as well as healthy blood donors (168 for L‐ficolin and 564 for MBL).

Results:  Average (mean and median) serum L‐ficolin concentrations were lower in the bronchiectasis patients (P < 0.04), but average MBL values did not differ significantly between the three groups. Relative L‐ficolin deficiency was more frequent in bronchiectasis patients compared with blood donors (P ≤ 0.002), whereas MBL insufficiency was associated with pneumonia.

Conclusion:  A relative lack of serum L‐ficolin might predispose to the development of bronchiectasis, although other explanations for the observed association are possible.

Please cite this paper as: Kilpatrick DC, Chalmers JD, MacDonald SL, Murray M, Mohammed A, Hart SP, Matsushita M and Hill A. Stable bronchiectasis is associated with low serum L‐ficolin concentrations. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2009; 3: 29–33.
Cytokine Adjuvanation of Therapeutic Anti‐tumor Immunity Targeted to Cancer Mucosa Antigens
Authors: Snook Adam E. , Huang Lan , Schulz Stephanie , Eisenlohr Laurence C. , Waldman Scott A.
Published: October 2008

Colorectal cancer immunotherapy is limited by the paucity of available target antigens fulfilling the necessary criteria of tumor‐specificity, sufficient immunogenicity and universal association with disease. A novel class of immune targets, cancer mucosa antigens (CMAs), whose expression normally is confined to mucosae but maintained during neoplastic transformation, promises to overcome these imitations, enjoying the advantage of immune compartmentalization, preventing autoimmune disease, while permitting therapeutic anti‐tumor responses. Indeed, therapeutic immunization against the model CMA guanylyl cyclase c (GCC) extends survival in mouse models of established parenchymal colorectal cancer metastases with antitumor efficacy superior to currently available antigens. Here adjuvanation of therapeutic antitumor immunity to GCC was explored employing the cytokines IL‐2 and GM‐CSF in a mouse model of metastatic colorectal cancer. Combining plasmids expressing murine IL‐2 or GM‐CSF with recombinant viral vector immunization to GCC enhanced antitumor efficacy beyond viral vector immunization alone. These studies support the incorporation of IL‐2 and GM‐CSF in CMA‐targeted immunization regimens for established colorectal cancer metastases.
BPSI2.0: a C/C++ interface program for species identification via DNA barcoding with a BP‐neural network by calling the Matlab engine
Authors: ZHANG A. B. , SAVOLAINEN P.
Published: October 2008

BP‐Species Identification (BPSI2.0) is a computer program that performs species identification by training a Back‐Propagation Neural Network. A short DNA barcoding segment is used as input for training a three‐layer BP network. The trained network can assign an unknown query sequence to a known species in the user's database, and provide the corresponding subvector value of the output vector as a relative probability value.
Correlation between vision‐ and health‐related quality of life scores
Authors: Swamy Brighu N. , Chia Ee‐Munn , Wang Jie Jin , Rochtchina Elena , Mitchell Paul
Published: October 2008

Purpose:  To examine the correlation between health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) scores [assessed using the generic Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36) questionnaire] and vision‐related quality of life (VRQOL) scores [assessed using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI‐VFQ25)].

Methods:  Cross‐sectional analytic study. All surviving participants of the Blue Mountains Eye Study (n = 1952, aged 60 years and older) were invited to attend comprehensive eye examinations 10 years after baseline examinations and were asked to complete both questionnaires.

Results:  Complete data were available for 1436 participants. After controlling for age, sex and the presence of either unilateral or bilateral visual impairment, the number of hospital admissions, chronic medical conditions and disabilities, we found that the composite NEI‐VFQ score was significantly associated with the two main domains of the SF‐36 survey: the summary physical component score (P < 0.001) and the mental component score (P < 0.001). There was relatively low correlation (r < 0.3) between the NEI‐VFQ25 subscales and SF‐36 subscales including the physical and mental composite scores.

Conclusion:  VRQOL is influenced by both general health and HRQOL. However, there is a relatively low correlation between the individual subscales of these two quality of life questionnaires.
Measurements of Contact and Leakage in a Pipe Flange Gasket
Authors: Dwyer-Joyce R. S. , Osborne P. , Beck S. B. M.
Published: October 2008

Leakage from gaskets and seals is a major concern in the process industry. In this work we investigate an ultrasonic means of determining the degree of contact between a pipe flange and compressed gasket. This is related to the leakage rate through the gasket. A simple pressure vessel with a flange and gasket assembly has been constructed. Ultrasonic transducers were mounted on the flange. Reflected pulses and leakage rates were monitored simultaneously for a range of gasket contact pressures and internal pressures. The reflected ultrasonic wave can be used to determine the stiffness of the gasket-flange interface. Interface stiffness was found to correlate closely with the applied gasket clamping load. In this way the ultrasonic signal could be correlated with leakage rate.
Pressure Testing of New 8” Pipeline Lateral With Air
Authors: Botros K. K. , Geerligs J. , Glover A. , Nahas G.
Published: October 2008

A procedure for pressure testing of small diameter pipelines (up to NPS 12) using air has been developed based on pilot test results conducted on a controlled simulated test section of a small volume = 18.5 m3. This paper describes the simulated test facility and presents results of five simulated tests with different size pinhole leaks. A model describing leaks and effects of variation in air temperature has been developed, and together with the test results, a criteria for the upper limit of pipe volume to leak area ratio for implementation of air testing for various pipe sizes, has been arrived at. The procedure was then developed and utilized on a project approved by the Alberta Energy Utility Board. Results of this test on a new 12.2 km NPS 8 pipeline lateral in Alberta are also presented.
Computer Programming Simulation of Two-Phase Flow Pipelines Using Mechanistic and Semi-Empirical Models
Authors: Fazeli Ahmad , Vatani Ali
Published: October 2008

Two-phase flow pipelines are utilized in simultaneous transferring of liquid and gas from reservoir fields to production units and refineries. In order to obtain the hydraulic design of pipelines, pressure drop and liquid holdup were calculated following pipeline flow regime determination. Two semi-empirical and mechanistical models were used. Empirical models e.g. Beggs & Brill, 1973, are only applicable in certain situations were pipeline conditions are adaptable to the model; therefore we used the Taitel & Dukler, 1976, Baker et al., 1988, Petalas & Aziz, 1998, and Gomez et al., 1999, mechanistical models which are practical in more extensive conditions. The FLOPAT code was designed and utilized which is capable of the determining the physical properties of the fluid by either compositional or non-compositional (black oil) fluid models. It was challenged in various pipeline positions e. g. horizontal, vertical and inclined. Specification of the flow regime and also pressure drop and liquid holdup could precisely be calculated by mechanistical models. The flow regimes considered in the pipeline were: stratified, wavy & annular (Segregated Flow), plug & slug (Intermittent Flow) and bubble & mist (Distributive Flow). We also compared output results against the Stanford Multiphase Flow Database which were used by Petalas & Aziz, 1998, and the effect of the flow rate, pipeline diameter, inclination, temperature and pressure on the flow regime, liquid holdup and pressure drop were studied. The outputs (flow regime, pressure drop and liquid holdup) were comparable with the existing pipeline data. Moreover, by this comparison one may possibly suggest the more suitable model for usage in a certain pipeline.
Plastic Collapse Load Determination Using Laboratory-Scale SE(T) Samples Under Fixed-Grip Loading
Authors: Xu S. , Bouchard R. , Shen G. , Tyson W. R.
Published: October 2008

A high-toughness steel was tested in tension under fixed-grip loading using Charpy-size SE(T) samples. The objective was to determine plastic collapse loads using laboratory-scale samples under conditions similar to those experienced by girth weld defects in pipelines. The selection of the high-toughness steel was to inhibit significant crack extension from notches at maximum loads and this was largely achieved based on fractographic observations and ductile tearing analysis. This paper includes detailed experimental measurements of maximum loads, fractographic observations, and comparison of the experimental values with FEA results in 2-D plane stress and plane strain and in 3-D. The plastic collapse limit in BS 7910 was found to be conservative for plane-sided samples by 17 to 30% (average 23%) for the steel and geometries used in this work.
Permitting, Designing, and Constructing a Compensatory Saltmarsh Along the Savannah River
Authors: Goldstein Jason M.
Published: October 2008

Southern LNG Inc. (SLNG), located near Savannah, Georgia, is one of only four LNG import terminals currently operating in the continental United States. In 1999, SLNG proposed to increase their existing turning basin to alleviate a navigation bottleneck and to accommodate safer docking for the tankers of ever-increasing size that navigate the Savannah River. Additionally, in 2001, SLNG proposed an expansion project which included the creation of a new slip. The expansion of the existing turning basin and the creation of the slip was predicted to permanently impact 3.29-acres of saltmarsh and 0.80-acres of protected estuarine mudflats. Since no saltmarsh mitigation banks are located in the State of Georgia, SLNG designed a mitigation plan to develop an in-kind compensatory wetland that was sited on the southern end of SLNG’s property. The created wetland was established in July 2003 and is undergoing a seven-year monitoring period. To date, the created wetland is functioning similarly to adjacent, naturally-occurring saltmarsh systems that are also located in the Savannah River.
Pipelining Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
Authors: Mohitpour Mo , Jenkins Andrew , Babuk Tom
Published: October 2008

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a mixture of light hydrocarbons, gaseous at normal temperature (15°C) and pressure (101.329 kPa) and maintained in the liquid state by increased pressure or lowered temperature. LPG is the generic name for “commercial butane” and “commercial propane”. Because of its high heating values, high purity, cleanness of combustion and easy of handling, LPG finds very wide application in a large variety of industrial, commercial, domestic and leisure uses. The history of LPG goes back to the early 1900s. The first car powered by propane ran in 1913 and by 1915 propane was used in torches to cut through metal. Current global LPG consumption is over 200 million tonnes/annum. Transportation of LPG by pipelines is environmentally friendly in that it entails less energy consumption and exhaust emissions than other modes of transportation. Worldwide, there are over 220,000 miles (350,000 kilometers) of petroleum, refined products and LPG pipelines. The majority are in the United States. Some refined products pipelines carry LPG in batch form. However, there are only about 8000 kilometers of single phase pipelines, of various diameters, that transport LPG (propane or butane) fluids (Mohitpour et al, 2006). There are a number of codes that industry follows for the design, fabrication, construction and operation of LPG facilities. However, there are no regulations or legislation that specifically cite the pipeline transportation of the product. From a safety point of view, although LPG is non-toxic, it can be very dangerous if not handled properly. A partial or complete rupture of an LPG pipeline, resulting in an accidental release, will cause issues related to evaporation, vapor cloud propagation and dispersion. Response to emergencies such as rupture and leak in LPG pipelining is thus critical and must ensure rapid action with respect to containment, control, elimination and effective maintenance/repair. This paper provides an overview the code and regulatory requirements and summarizes the more significant aspects of the design, construction and safe operation pertaining to LPG pipeline systems. It covers the timeline and statistics of the global LPG business; the type of facilities that make up the industry; and the LPG properties pertinent to pipeline design. It also addresses the significant safety issues of LPG pipelining including a discussion on emergency response and associated equipment needs and repair techniques.
Research of Method to Diagnosing Complex Fault of Compressor in Pipeline Station
Authors: Wang Zhao-Hui , Zhang Lai-Bin , Liang Wei , Duan Lixiang
Published: October 2008

The compressor is dynamical equipment in pipeline station to deliver oil gas, it’s fault can result big accident such as stopping delivery and producing economic losing, and some fault of compressor are very complex due to the compressor’s complicated structure. Many compressor have carried simple diagnostic system, which can only diagnose normal fault, are not effective for diagnosing complex fault because these fault attributes are not obvious. This paper has researched the method to diagnose complex fault, by collecting the compressor’s vibration signals, using wavelet noise reduction technique and the fractal dimension method to process the vibration signal, which can abstract the non-obvious characteristics of complex fault effectively. The basic principle of fractal method applied in fault diagnosis is described. The result implies that the fractal dimension of good compressor is 4.4, and the fractal dimension of faulty compressor is 5.36, and fractal dimension of compressor with complex faults is 5.42. It is illustrated that this method is very effective for describing the fault features and diagnosing the complex fault of complex. This method can diagnose and predict the complex fault with a high correctness, and has been used in the Shanxi-Beijing pipeline station successfully, Which provide a good tool for pipeline’s Safety and Integrity Management.
Application of Strain-Based Design for Pipelines in Permafrost Areas
Authors: Zhou Joe , Horsley David , Rothwell Brian
Published: October 2008

The pipeline industry in United States and Canada is actively pursuing major pipeline development opportunities in arctic and sub-arctic regions. The discontinuous permafrost in the arctic and sub-arctic regions poses significant challenges to design, construction and operation of transmission pipelines and facilities. Dependent on the temperature ranges that a pipeline is operating within, the pipeline may be subjected to significant amounts of frost heave and thaw settlement which could potentially induce excessive stresses and strains into the pipeline. To ensure pipeline safety and integrity and to maintain project economics, an alternative design methodology is required based on a strain-based approach. This paper describes the strain based design methodology, the progress made in past years on its application and the need for future development.
Development of a Supersonic Ejector for Capturing Very Low-Pressure Vent Gases and Re-Injection Into a High-Pressure Gas Stream
Authors: Botros K. K. , Geerligs J. , Imran H. , Thompson W.
Published: October 2008

The purpose of the ejector device is to capture the gas leakage from a dry-gas seal at low pressure, and re-inject it into the fuel gas line to the gas generator (without the use of compressors or rotating elements), hence providing a means to utilize the gas that would otherwise be vented to atmosphere. Implementation of this device will also have the benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. The primary challenge to achieve the above goal lies in the fact that the leakage gas pressure is in the range of 70–340 kPag, while the minimum pressure required upstream of the fuel gas regulator is in the range of 2400–3300 kPag. The device consists of a two-stage supersonic ejector. The first stage is highly supersonic (nozzle exit Mach number ≃ 2.54), while the second stage is moderately supersonic (nozzle exit Mach number ≃ 1.72). Several tests where conducted on various configurations of the two stages on natural gas in order to arrive at the optimum design and operating parameters. The optimum design gave an expansion pressure ratio (motive/suction) of the order of 14.0 and compression pressure ratio (discharge/suction) of around 8.1. These ratios would meet the requirement of the minimum suction and discharge pressure mentioned above. This paper presents the optimum configuration arrived at after several iterations of different geometries of the supersonic nozzles, particularly for the first stage ejector, and presents the performance test results of the integrated system. The results indicate that the device would meet the requirements of capturing the low pressure, low flow dry gas seal leakage and re-inject it into the fuel gas stream with an overall ejector efficiency (based on thermodynamic availability) of 80%.
Estimation of Slant Tearing Energy for High-Grade Pipeline Steel From Instrumented Charpy Test Data and its Transferability to Large Structures
Authors: Hashemi Sayyed H. , Howard Ian C. , Yates John R. , Andrews Robert M. , Edwards Alan M.
Published: October 2008

For several decades, the Charpy upper shelf energy has been used as a fracture controlling parameter to estimate the crack arrest/propagation performance of gas transportation pipeline steels. However, significant discrepancies have been observed between the results of full-scale burst experiments on modern pipeline steels and those predicted by Charpy-based fracture models. This indicates that fracture models calibrated in the past on lower-grade pipeline steels (Charpy toughness below about 100J) cannot be extrapolated beyond their calibration range to assess the fracture behaviour of higher-strength high-toughness steels. One reason for this is the high level of energy often required for crack initiation in these steels. Accordingly, in the short term different correction factors ranging from 1.4 to 2 have been proposed to refine these fracture prediction models. The use of alternative failure parameters like CTOA is currently under review. In this paper a novel experimental technique is given to apportion the upper shelf Charpy fracture energy into its different components, i.e. crack initiation energy and flat and slant tearing energy. The experimental data from instrumented Charpy tests on standard impact specimens made from an X100 grade pipeline steel is used to estimate crack initiation and propagation energy. The areas associated with flat tearing in the centre and slant shearing at the edges of the fracture surface of Charpy test specimens are estimated optically using a fine measurement grid with 0.5 mm spacing. The energy required for generating the flat and slant fracture areas is calculated by the use of associated multipliers, i.e. the specific flat and slant fracture energy (in terms of J/mm2). These are measured separately using flat and slant crack growth data from fracture tests on standard C(T) and modified DCB like specimens. The results showed that the Charpy energy from a test is dominated by non-crack propagation energies. Around 36% of the measured impact energy appeared to be associated with flat and slant tearing processes. As the latter is the important failure micro-mechanism in pipeline steel only that part of the overall Charpy shelf energy which is associated with slant shearing might be used to evaluate the crack growth resistance of modern steels. This suggests the possible use of correction factors for high toughness pipeline steels of the order of 1.7 to transfer the slant fracture energy measured on small-scale specimens to the real structures for predicting their crack arrest/propagation behaviour. The correction factor proposed here from the laboratory test programme agrees with those obtained from costly full-thickness burst experiments on similar class of pipeline steel.
Leak Detection Method Based on Pressure Wave Change
Authors: Qin XianYong , Zhang LaiBin , Wang ZhaoHui , Liang Wei
Published: October 2008

Reliability, sensitivity and detecting time under practical operational conditions are the most important parameters of a leak detection system. With the development of hardware and software, more and more pipelines are installed with advanced SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system, so the compatibility of the leak detection system with SCADA system is also becoming important today. Pipeline leakage generates a sudden change in the pipeline pressure and flow. The paper introduces leak detecting methods according to the pipeline pressure wave change. In order to improve the compatibility of the leak detecting system, “OPC (Ole for process Control)” technology is used for obtaining the pressure signals from the distributed data collection system. Special focus is given on analysis of the pressure signals. It is successful to denoise the signals by means of wavelet scale shrinkage, and to capture the leak time tag using wavelet transform modulus maximum for locating the leak position accurately. A leak detecting system is established based on SCADA system. Tests and practical applications show that it locates leak position precisely. Good performance is obtained on both crude oil pipeline and product pipeline.
Re-Engineering Existing Pipelines in Western Canada
Authors: Hallihan Michael F.
Published: October 2008

The pipeline infrastructure throughout Western Canada is extensive, with more than 350,000 km in Alberta alone. As the profitability of oil and gas production swings, so too does the utilization of the pipeline infrastructure. During the 1990’s, the economics of some oil and gas production was marginal and the associated pipelines were under utilized. In particular, upstream producers deactivated several under utilized pipelines. Deactivated lines were blocked in, others purged and isolated, while others were completely abandoned. The profitability of oil and gas production has improved steadily since 1999 and the industry has pursued the reactivation of many of these pipelines. In several cases, the diligence of the pipeline operator during economically tight periods was less than desirable with respect to both of these functions. Poor economics also impaired the development and preservation of good pipeline design and maintenance records. The retention of the existing records was further impaired by the numerous corporate divestments and acquisitions that occurred over the past fifteen years. The lack of good quality pipeline records has hampered efforts to reactivate many pipelines. Another feature of our economic environment is the production of alternate zones from an existing well that was previously uneconomic. These zones often produce fluids significantly different than the original well completion and may not be consistent with the design of the original pipeline. This requires re-engineering of the pipeline for the new service. The most common situation is changing from one substance to another, however, changing the maximum operating pressure, changing the design temperature or changing the flow direction may also be required. The objective of this paper is to describe some of the specific challenges in reactivating dormant pipelines and re-engineering pipelines for new service conditions. The focus of this paper will be with respect to pipelines built to CSA Z183, Z184 or Z662 standards and the Alberta Pipeline Regulation.
Evaluation of Crack Growth Resistance Curves for Pipeline Steels Using Constraint Designed Fracture Specimens
Authors: Cravero Sebastian , Ruggieri Claudio
Published: October 2008

This work provides an estimation procedure to determine J-resistance curves for SE(T) fracture specimens using the unloading compliance technique and the eta-method. In the present study, attention is directed to pin-loaded SE(T) specimens with varying geometry and crack sizes but representative solutions are also included for clamped SE(T) specimens. A summary of the methodology upon which J and crack extension are derived sets the necessary framework to determine crack resistance data from the measured load vs. displacement curves. The extensive plane-strain analyses enable numerical estimates of the nondimensional compliance, μ, and parameters η and γ for a wide range of specimen geometries and material properties characteristic of structural and pipeline steels. Laboratory testing of an API 5L X60 steel at room temperature using pin-loaded SE(T) specimens with side-grooves provide the load-displacement data needed to validate the estimation procedure for measuring the crack growth resistance curve for the material. The results presented here produce a representative set of solutions which lend further support to develop standard test procedures for constraint-designed SE(T) specimens applicable in measurements of crack growth resistance for pipelines.