bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Instantaneous Monitoring of Drill Bit Wear and Specific Energy as a Criteria for the Appropriate Time for Pulling Out Worn Bits
Authors: Abbas Rafid K. , Hassanpour Ali , Hare Colin , Ghadiri Mojtaba
Published: July 2015

Current techniques for deciding when to pull out worn bits are based on speculation rather than reliable engineered methods. Two concepts have been previously reported in the literature to incorporate the effects of drilling parameters on forecasting the life of drill bits. Bit tooth flatness and specific energy approaches were used for assessing the bit tooth wear and predicting the rock formation and its properties being drilled. However, drilling shale formations as well as encountering abnormal geologic formations especially unconformities, reduces the reliability of these methods.

In this paper, a modified technique based on combined bit dullness and specific energy have been used as trending tools for determining the status of the drill bit even in cases where drill torque data is unavailable.

As case studies, currently producing oil wells from southern Iraq are analysed for bit wear. Estimated results of bit wear for each bit run were correlated with the qualitative field bit tooth flatness revealing a successful key index for the suitable time to pull out worn bits. Furthermore, literature values of unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of the drilled formations were compared with the computed mechanical specific energy (MSE) to validate the obtained results. Good agreement was observed making the study encouraging.

The analysis is promising for evaluating drill bit selection and predicting the type of formation being drilled.
Tengiz Sour Gas Injection Project: An Update
Authors: Urazgaliyeva Gulnara , King Gregory R. , Darmentaev Sabyrzhan , Tursinbayeva Damira , Dunger Darrin , Howery Randy , Zalan Tom , Lindsell Karl , Iskakov Elrad , Turymova Assel , Jenkins Steve , Walker Chuck , Bateman Phil , Aitzhanov Abzal
Published: July 2015

The Tengiz oilfield is a giant, carbonate reservoir of Devonian to Carboniferous age located in the Pricaspian Basin of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Gas Injection at the Tengiz field began in January 2007 with sweet gas injection as Phase 1 of the Sour Gas Injection (SGI) pilot project followed by sour gas injection as Phase 2. Phase 2 injection began in October 2007, but was interrupted due to initial start up problems. Continuous sour gas injection was achieved three months later in January 2008.

The SGI project has four signposts for success: compressor reliability, injectivity, wellbore durability, and reservoir performance. The sour gas compressor at Tengiz was the first of its kind and has had greater than 90% availability when the Second Generation Plant (SGP) has been operational (SGI injection gas is produced through SGP). Injectivity has exceeded expectations and wellbore durability has also been excellent. Reservoir performance is a longer term signpost which is monitored though an extensive surveillance program. The Tengiz Reservoir appears to be performing as expected to the sour gas injection.

The SGI project is a first-contact miscible gas injection process consisting of seven inverted five-spot patterns. To expedite data acquisition, the SGI well patterns were designed to include one "super-spot" pattern (twin injectors 100 m apart providing dedicated injection support to different geologic layers) and three short-spaced producers (producer-injector spacing approximately 1/3 of the standard spacing). Tracers, pulse tests, multiphase meters, gas saturation logs, and production and injection logs are used to monitor and understand reservoir performance. A specialized simulation model (the SGI Monitoring Model) was constructed which uses local grid refinement in the SGI pattern area. This model is used to determine how well the reservoir characterization is able to capture the dynamic reservoir response to the miscible SGI process.

An earlier paper (Darmentaev et. al., 2010) discussed preliminary results from the SGI project. The proposed paper will discuss recent results from the reservoir surveillance program, how these recent results compare to the preliminary results, and the integration of all results into our current understanding of SGI performance. In addition, updates to the Monitoring Model, lessons learned and best practices developed since the commencement of sour gas injection will be discussed.
Multidisciplinary Proactive Planning of Data Acquisition in New WWD Wells
Authors: Se Yegor , Macary Sameh , Brantjes Jeroen , Battawy Ahmed
Published: July 2015

Tengizchevroil (TCO) has been disposing waste water (produced and industrial) into a shallow sand aquifer for almost 20 years. Waste Water Disposal (WWD) Mining Allotment requests waste water to be contained within certain formation stratigraphically and certain "polygon" laterally. TCO is interested in maintaining high injection rates, maintaining well integrity without compromising regulatory restrictions. There were two new wells recently drilled in the area. These two wells have provided excellent opportunity to acquire core and wireline data to improve the reservoir characterization.

Careful planning and preparation of operating procedures for all operations (site preparation, drilling, coring, core handling and analysis, wireline acquisition and petrophysical interpretation) led to a big success of being drilled below budget and ahead of schedule with zero incidents and injury free. Collaborative discussions with vendors on selecting appropriate equipment and pin pointing the logistic details minimized hassle and potential human error during the operations.

Acquired core from key formations of interest, full suite of wireline logs and two water samples in conjunction with seismic greatly improved understanding of the depositional environment, connectivity and areal extend of numerous sand bodies, including main injection sand. Acquired MDT data confirmed the isolation between main injection interval and overlaying formations. Good quality porosity data and MDT pressure information assisted in modeling efforts to achieve more accurate aquifer size estimation and history match existing pressure data. Acquired information will also help designing a production test with electrical submersible pump (ESP) in a future well in this area.

Overall, the value of acquired information exceeded expectations of all final users. The main reason for such a success is the involvement of almost all stakeholders from the well planning to execution. The well program included actions to fulfill regulatory affairs, reservoir management requisites and improve oil recovery (IOR) project needs to evaluate water sources and reservoir quality for future waterflood project.
Karachaganak - Impact of Complex Internal Geometries on Fluid Flow Paths
Authors: Bigoni F. , Francesconi A. , Tumbarello G. , Tarantini V. , Imagambetov K.
Published: July 2015

Karachaganak field is one of the largest accumulations of gas-condensate in the world. Located in the northern Pre-Caspian Basin (Kazakhstan), the field is a Permo-Carboniferous isolated carbonate platform with a hydrocarbon column of about 1500 m. In production since 1985, the actual development focuses the oil rim with gas injection implemented, since 2004, in a confined area of the Platform Interior.

Various future development scenarios are now being considered to more fully develop the reservoir, and some of the recovery processes being modeled require an improved understanding of the internal reservoir architecture. In fact the internal reservoir architecture is rather complex, affected by the initial development of aggrading mounds followed by progradation (consisting most likely in a clinoform geometry) passing to cyclic, grain-dominated platform interior sediments. The resulting reservoir quality is quite heterogeneous with low porosity but locally high productivity when affected by micro-fractures and vugs. In this context a deep analysis has been performed considering the location of additional injection in different areas/regions of the field evaluating the possible risks and the uncertainties affecting the liquid recoveries. Nine different areas characterised by specific geological/dynamic behaviour have been investigated. Moreover considering the Prograding area, alternative models were built in order to address the possible impact of Clinoforms on the flow patterns. The final analysis, which takes into consideration the possible liquid recovery and the relevant knowledge and complexity of the different areas, provided an improved view to optimize the future injection. In fact, the Cyclic Platform, where injection has been already implemented, appears to be the best candidate; other areas, although affected by a certain degree of uncertainty, also seem promising from the recovery point of view, while some other regions, characterised by high compartmentalisation, appear to be less interesting.
Integrated Approach for Fluid Identification and Flow Profile Determination Using Advanced Production Logging Tools and Techniques
Authors: Timonin Andrey , El Battawy Ahmed , Kubekbayev Izbergen , Pakozdi Gabor
Published: July 2015

In a gas-condensate field in Kazakhstan, advanced production logging tools and techniques were used to assess well productivity, characterize flow profiles, and determine hydrocarbon saturation pressure at downhole well flowing conditions.

The exploration and appraisal wells produce from a complex carbonate reservoir. To assess well productivity, each well was perforated and tested across each formation separately. Intervals to perforate were selected based on petrophysical log evaluation, core analysis, and the results of selective testing with a wireline formation tester. While testing these wells, production logging data were acquired at different downhole flowing pressures and a detailed analysis of gas holdup measurements with optical probes enabled the determination of the dew-point pressure of produced gas-condensate.

Such analysis is beneficial, especially when pressure/volume/temperature (PVT) analysis of produced fluid is not yet available for exploration and appraisal wells. Further comparison of wireline-acquired PVT samples showed good agreement between measured dew-point pressure from the production logging tool and PVT laboratory analysis results.

In the field, production logging helped in understanding well behavior by locating producing intervals in wells that have more than one perforated interval or produce from only one long perforated interval that has several producing intervals. Field experience verifies that a properly planned and executed production logging operation can yield invaluable early information for key investment decisions and complement the results of the well test.
Petroleum Systems Modeling and Exploration Risk Assessment for the Eastern Margin of the Precaspian Basin
Authors: Rayeva Nurgul , Kosnazarova Nurgul , Arykbayeva Zhuldyz , Shaikhina Dana
Published: July 2015

The current paper describes the application of petroleum systems modeling of Eastern Margin of the Precaspian basin with the aim of determination of potentially prolific areas for hydrocarbons and exploration risks assessment.

The main objective of the study was to build a static petroleum systems model which is capable to reproduce the existing hydrocarbon (HC) fields and therefore applicable to be used as a predictive tool for delineating the prospective hydrocarbon areas.

The presalt sequence of the basin was assessed considering different scenarios. Applying petroleum systems 1D modeling, petroleum systems quick-look analysis and play chance mapping technologies the main elements of petroleum systems were characterized in accordance with available structural, geochemical and petrophysical information and exploration risks were assessed.

The results of 1D petroleum systems modeling allowed us to calibrate the heat flow and temperature gradients for the static model. The simulation results of potential hydrocarbon migration and accumulation showed good correlation with the existing hydrocarbon fields. Finally, the results of the exploration risks assessment with indication of areas with high hydrocarbon potential were obtained.

Overall, the value and importance of petroleum systems modeling and risk assessment is highlighted in the current work. Particularly the most interesting and potentially prolific areas of the Eastern Margin of the Precaspian basin are identified.

The procedure and results presented in the paper can widely be used in the other studies in Precaspian region.
A New Era of Effective Reservoir Management: Completion and Stimulation Technology Evolution in the Karachaganak Field
Authors: Adeleke Justus , Saada Tamer , Pitoni Enzo , Vegliante Enzo , Kushkumbayeva Gulmira , Itisheva Zhanna
Published: July 2015

To improve reservoir management and field recovery, Karachaganak Petroleum Operating b.v. (KPO), the operator of the giant Karachaganak gas-condensate field in Kazakhstan, drills long horizontal wells and then stimulates them with acid. A variety of different acid stimulation techniques have been used, progressing from simple acid washes to high rate matrix acid treatments and hydraulic fracturing with gelled acid. With the advent of mechanical downhole diversion equipment, KPO now performs multistage selective acid stimulation treatments using Swell Packers for isolation and Ball Activated Multistage Selective Valves for selection stimulation and effective reservoir management.

To date, KPO has drilled several long horizontal wells, completed them with multistage selective completions and stimulated the wells using acid. Analysis of both pre- and post-stimulation pressure build-up tests from these wells has shown the benefit of using this completion technique with improvements in both productivity index (PI) and flow capacity (Kh). There is also a significant improvement in the flow profile along the wellbore which is a direct result of being able to control where the acid enters the formation rather than it treating a limited interval. Future reservoir fluid management will also be enhanced with this completion technique as it will be easier to isolate zones should they start producing water. KPO’s use of swelling packers for selective stimulation has been extended to restoring or enhancing production from existing wells

This paper summarises the on-going Multistage Selective Acid Stimulation (MSSAS) treatments, with emphasis on the treatment definition process for each stage, and presents initial quantitative conclusions from the analysis of the pre-post-stimulation well tests, production behaviour and fluids production profile with available PLT.
Children’s health risk assessment based on the content of toxic metals Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn in urban soil samples of Podgorica, Montenegro
Authors: Mugosa Boban , Djurovic Dijana , Pirnat Aleksandra , Bulat Zorica , Barjaktarovic-Labovic Snezana
Published: July 2015

Background/Aim. Due to their low tolerance to pollutants and hand-to-mouth
pathways the health risk is very high in children?s population. The aim of
this study was to evaluate risk to children?s health based on the content of
heavy metals in urban soil samples from Podgorica, Montenegro. This study
included the investigation of several toxic metals such as Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn
in soil samples from public parks and playgrounds. Methods. Sampling was
conducted in a period October-November, 2012. Based on cluster analysis, soil
samples were divided into two groups related to similarity of metal content
at examinated locations: the group I - near by recreational or residential
areas of the city, and the group II - near traffic roads. Concentration of
toxic metals, in urban soil samples were determined by a graphite furnace
atomic absorption spectrometry (Pb and Cd) and by inductively coupled plasma
optical emission spectrometry technique after microwave digestion. Due to
exposure to urban soil, non-cancerogenic index hazardous index (HI) for
children was estimated using 95th percentile values of total metal
concentration. The value of the total (ingestion, dermal and inhalation) HI
is calculated for maximum, minimum and the average concentration of metals
for children. Results. Mean concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn in the
surface layer of the studied urban soils were 85.91 mg/kg, 2.8 mg/kg and 52.9
mg/kg and 112.5 mg/kg, respectively. Samples from group II showed higher
metal content compared to group I. Urbanization and traffic are the main
sources of pollution of the urban soils of Podgorica. Most of the samples
(93.5%) had a high Pb content, 12.9% of the samples had a higher content of
Cd, while Cu and Zn were within the limits prescribed by national
legislation. At one location the level of security for lead is HI = 0.8 and
very closed to maximum acceptable value of 1. It is probably the result of
intensive traffic near by. Conclusion. All metals investigated showed
relatively higher concentrations at sites that were close to industrial
places and high ways. The mean concentrations of Pb and Zn and maximum
concentrations of Pb, Cd, and Zn were higher than presented values in the
National Regulation.
Age-related changes of vitamin C levels in aqueous humour
Authors: Canadananovic Vladimir , Latinovic Slobodanka , Barisic Sava , Babic Nikola , Jovanovic Sandra
Published: July 2015

Background/Aim. Age-related cataract is a common disease among senior
population. Vitamin C is the most effective reducing hydrosoluble antioxidant
causing reduction in the levels of free radicals in crystaline lens. The aim
of this study was to evaluate the age-related change of vitamin C (L-ascorbic
acid) level in the aqueous humor of patients with senile cataract. Methods.
This prospective study included 74 patients, divided into 3 age groups, with
age-related cataract, underwent routine phaco cataract surgery with
intraocular lens implantation. Aqueous humor was aspirated from 74 eyes at
the beginning of phacoemulsification. The levels of vitamin C (L-ascorbic
acid) in aqueous humor were determined with high-performance liquid
chromatography (HPLC). Results. The average age of patients included in the
study was 65 ? 9.85 years (54-87 years). The level of vitamin C in aqueous
humor was 152.78 ? 7.0125 ?g/mL in the group A (50-59 years), 134.15 ? 5.1569
?g/mL in the group B (60-69 years) and 106.51 ? 5.44 ?g/mL in the group C
(over 70 years). Conclusion. The amount of vitamin C in aqueous humor of
patients with age-related cataract is decreasing with age. There was a
statistically significant change (p < 0.001) of vitamin C aqueous
concentration in the patients of different age. This decrease could play a
role in susceptibility to cataract formation in older population.
Neurotoxic effects of oxygen in hyperbaric environment: A case report
Authors: Rabrenovic Milorad , Tresnjic Sasa , Rabrenovic Violeta , Cikiriz Nikola , Masic Sinisa , Matunovic Radomir
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Oxygen is an essential element of life in aerobic organisms.
However, if not controlled, inhalation of oxygen under increased pressure in
conditions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy can lead to serious damage and even
death. Case report. We presented a 20-year-old male who had begun exhibiting
symptoms of epilepsy during diving test in a hyperbaric chamber while
inhaling 100% oxygen. He was immediately taken off oxygen mask and started
breathing air and began rapid decompression. He lost consciousness, began
foaming at the mouth, and had a series of tonic spasms. The patient was
previously completely healthy and not on any medications. He was admitted for
emergency treatment in our hospital, where he was treated for epilepsy. On
admission, he complained of muscle and joint pain, and had erythematous
changes on the forehead, neck and chest. All these changes occurred after
leaving the hyperbaric chamber. Bloodwork revealed leukocytosis with
neutrophil (Leukocytosis 16.0 ? 109/L (reference values 4.00-11.00 ? 109/L),
Neutrophili 13 ? 109/L (reference values 1.9-8.0 ? 109/L), with elevated
enzymes aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 56 U/L (reference values 0-37 U/L),
alanin aminotransferase (ALT) 59 U /L, (reference values 25-65 U/L), creatine
kinase (CK) 649 U/L, (reference values 32-300 U /L), lactate dehydrogenase
(LDH) 398 U/L (reference values 85- 227 U/L). Because of pain and his
condition we began treatment in a hyperbaric chamber at a pressure of 2.0 ATA
for 70 minutes, resulting in a reduction of symptoms and objective recovery
of the patient. Within 24 h, repeated laboratory tests showed a reduction of
leukocytosis (13 ? 109/L and neutrophils (7.81 ? 109/L), and the gradual
reduction of the enzymes AST (47 U/L), ALT (50 U/L, CK (409 U/L), LDH (325
U/L). Since head CT and EEG were normal, epilepsy diagnosis was ruled out.
This fact, along with medical tests, facilitated the differential diagnosis
and confirmed that this was a case of neurotoxic effects of oxygen while the
patient was in a hyperbaric chamber, not epileptic seizures. Conclusion. This
case report suggests that in patients with symptoms of epileptic seizures
while undergoing treatment in a hyperbaric chamber, it is always important to
think of neurotoxic effects of pure oxygen which occurs at higher pressures
and with a longer inhalation of 100% oxygen. In these patients, reexposure to
hyperbaric conditions leads to recovery. This effect is important in daily
inhalation of 100% oxygen under hyperbaric conditions which is why the use of
pure oxygen is controlled and diving is allowed in shallow depths and for a
limited time.
A clinical study on the influence of suturing material on oral wound healing
Authors: Gazivoda Dragan , Pelemis Dejan , Vujaskovic Goran
Published: July 2015

Background/Aim. Suture materials play an important role in healing, enabling
reconstruction and reassembly of tissue separated by the surgical procedure
or trauma, and at the same time facilitating and promoting healing and
hemostasis. Suture materials are used daily in oral surgery, and are
considered to be substances most commonly implanted in human body. The aim of
this clinical study was to examine the speed of wound healing and
complications incidence, after the use of three different absorbable
synthetic suture materials in oral surgery (catgut, Dexon and Vicryl rapide),
and to ascertain which one is the most suitable for oral surgery. Methods.
The study was conducted on 96 patients undergoing root resection or surgical
extraction of third molars. Each of the suture materials (catgut, Dexon and
Vicryl rapide) was used for 8 root resections and 8 surgical third molar
extractions in the maxilla, as well as in the mandible (a total of 32
surgical interventions for each suture material). Results. The faster wound
healing was obtained with Vicryl rapide compared to other two suturing
material tested. There was no significant difference regarding the presence
of local reaction in all the three groups of patients on the 21st
postoperative day. Conclusion. The results of our clinical study point out
that Vycrilrapid contributes more than catgut or Dexon to faster healing of
human wounds, with fewer incidences of wound dehiscence and milder local
reactions.
Unrecognised adrenergic symptoms and the delayed diagnosis of urinary bladder paraganglioma
Authors: Dragovic Tamara , Marinkovic Dejan , Kuzmic-Jankovic Snezana , Prelevic Rade , Milovic Novak , Kovacevic Bozidar , Hajdukovic Zoran
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Paraganglioma is a rare neuroendocrine neoplasm that may arise
from the extra-adrenal autonomic paraganglia. Urinary bladder paraganglioma
is typically presented as repeated episodes of palpitations, headache or
blood pressure rise immediately after micturition. Management of these tumors
includes radical surgical treatment with preoperative antihypertensive
preparation, and a life-long follow-up. Case report. We presented a middle-
age female patient with functional urinary bladder paraganglioma, with a
3-year history of repeated episodes of abdominal pain, dysuria and hematuria.
After obtaining more precise anamnestic data, the patient reported occasional
simultaneous presence of mild adrenergic symptoms, that did not cause any
particular attention at first. Morphological and biohumoral examinations
suggested paraganglioma of the urinary bladder. Open partial cystectomy was
performed, detecting a submucosal mass, while immunohistochemical analysis
confirmed the presence of chromaffin tissue. Clinical manifestations,
diagnostic approach, management and histopathological findings of urinary
bladder paraganglioma are discussed. Conclusion. Since the prognosis with
localized paraganglioma is good, we underlined the importance of a
well-timed, accurate and detailed medical history in all the patients with
even mild, inexplicable micturition-provoked adrenergic symptomatology.
The significance of adiponectin as a biomarker in metabolic syndrome and/or coronary artery disease
Authors: Stojanovic Sanja , Deljanin-Ilic Marina , Ilic Stevan , Petrovic Dejan , Djukic Svetlana
Published: July 2015

Introduction/Aim. Adiponectin exerts profound protective actions during
insulin resistence or prediabetes progression towards more severe clinical
entities such as metabolic syndrome and/or cardiovascular disease. Since
hypoadiponectinaemia contributes to the pathophysiology of the metabolic
syndrome and coronary artery disease the level of circulating adiponectin may
be an early marker of cardiovascular events. The aim of this study was to
determine the relationships between serum adiponectin levels and parameters
of both insulin sensitivity and obesity in patients with the metabolic
syndrome and/or coronary artery disease, as well as to assess predictive
value of adiponectin serum levels as a biomarker of these entitetis. Methods.
The study included 100 patients with metabolic syndrome and/or coronary
artery disease with different degree of insulin resistance and healthy,
normoglycemic individuals. The control group comprising healthy,
normoglycemic individuals was used for comparison. Serum level of
adiponectin, fasting glucose, fasting insulinemia Homeostasis Model
Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMAIR) index and anthropometric parameters
were determined in all the subjects. Adiponectin was measured by using the
ultrasensitive ELISA method. Insulinemia was measured by the radioimmunoassay
(RIA) method. The presence of glycemic disorders was assessed on the basis of
oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Results. Adiponectin level was inversely
correlated with age (? = - 0.015), parameters of both obesity (R = 0.437; p <
0.001) and insulin resistance (R = 0.374; p < 0.01). Decreasing in the level
of adiponectin was strongly implicated in the development of insulin
resistance. Most importantly, a statistically significant rapid decrease in
adiponectin was in the prediabetic stages (p < 0.01). The predictor value of
adiponectin was 1,356.32 ? 402.65 ?g/mL. Conclusions. The obtained resultats
suggest that adiponectin may be a useful marker in identification of
individuals with risk of developing metabolic syndrome and coronary artery
disease, as well as a predictor of prediabetes.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials on Chemomechanical Caries Removal
Authors: Hamama HHH , Yiu CKY , Burrow MF , King NM
Published: July 2015

Objectives

The aim of this review was to assess the methodologies used in previously published prospective randomized clinical trials on chemomechanical caries removal and to conduct a meta-analysis to quantify the differences in the excavation time between chemomechanical and conventional caries removal methods.

Methods

An electronic search was performed using Scopus, PubMed, EBSCO host, and Cochrane Library databases. The following categories were excluded during the assessment process: non-English studies published before 2000, animal studies, review articles, laboratory studies, case reports, and nonrandomized or retrospective clinical trials. The methodologies of the selected clinical trials were assessed. Furthermore, the reviewed clinical trials were subjected to meta-analysis for quantifying the differences in excavation time between the chemomechanical and the conventional caries removal techniques.

Results

Only 19 randomized clinical trials fit the inclusion criteria of this systematic review. None of the 19 reviewed trials completely fulfilled Delphi's ideal criteria for quality assessment of randomized clinical trials. The meta-analysis results revealed that the shortest mean excavation time was recorded for rotary caries excavation (2.99±0.001 minutes), followed by the enzyme-based chemomechanical caries removal method (6.36±0.08 minutes) and the the hand excavation method (atraumatic restorative technique; 6.98±0.17 minutes). The longest caries excavation time was recorded for the sodium hypochlorite-based chemomechanical caries removal method (8.12±0.02 minutes).

Conclusions

It was found that none of the current reviewed trials fulfilled all the ideal requirements of clinical trials. Furthermore, the current scientific evidence shows that the sodium hypochlorite-based (Carisolv) chemomechanical caries removal method was more time consuming when compared to the enzyme-based (Papacarie) chemomechanical and the conventional caries removal methods. Further prospective randomized controlled clinical trials evaluating the long-term follow-up of papain-treated permanent teeth are needed.
Pattern of Maxillofacial fracture in Western and Central Nepal: An experience in 3 tertiary level health institutions
Authors: Subedi S , Shrestha B , Adhikari RB
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND: There are only few studies regarding the pattern and causes of maxillofacial fractures till date in Nepal and no such study in western and central Nepalese population has been conducted. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to describe the causes and the pattern of maxillofacial fractures in western and central part of Nepal over the period of 5 years.MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective analysis of maxillofacial fractures was conducted on 328 patients who were treated in the department of maxillofacial surgery. Data was extracted and analyzed based on age, sex, cause of injury and anatomic location.RESULT Young males of 3rd decade of life most commonly sustained the maxillofacial trauma. The commonest site involved was the zygomatic complex (42%) when only mid face fractures was considered and parasymphysis (32%) when only mandible was considered.The most common cause of injuries was road traffic accidents (289 patients; 88.1%) followed by interpersonal violence (25 patients; 7.6 %) and falls accounting for 4.2% of the all injuries. CONCLUSION The findings of this study suggest the need for expansion of the motorway network, ensuring compliance of strict traffic rules and regulations, replacing old vehicles without safety measures and implement school education in alcohol abuse.Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2014, Vol-10, No-3, 8-13
Microbiology of lower respiratory tract infection in workers of garment industry of Kathmandu
Authors: Pant S , Bhusal KR , Manandhar S
Published: July 2015

By mistake the wrong PDF was loaded for this article. The correct PDF was loaded on 19th September 2016. OBJECTIVES This study was designed with the objectives of describing the distribution pattern of microorganisms responsible for causing LRTI in the workers of garment industries.MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 198 cases of suspected person of Lower Respiratory Tract infection (LRTI) LRTI were included in this study. This study was conducted between November 2009 to April 2010. Specimen for the study was expectorated sputum. Gram-stain, Ziehl-Neelsen stains and culture were performed.RESULTS On direct microscopic examination, 20.51% were Gram positive bacteria, 79.48% were Gram negative bacteria and 4% were smear positive AFB. On culture sensitivity examination, 22% percent showed growth of different bacteria in different culture media. The bacteria isolated from the samples included Klebsiella pneumoniae (15.38%), Proteus mirabilis (15.38%) and Citrobacterfruendii (15.38%). Gram Negative bacteria were found most susceptible to Ciprofloxacin (92.30%, 24/26) and Amikacin (92.30%, 24/26). Similarly, Gram Positive bacteria were found most susceptible to Ciprofloxacin (100%, 8/8) followed by Cloxacillin and Cephalexin (87.5%, 7/8). Smear positive AFB was significantly associated with not using the protective measures (mask) by workers and presence of symptoms (cough for more than two weeks, night sweat, hemoptysis and anorexia) (p=0.031). Culture positivity was significantly associated with symptoms like production of purulent sputum (p=0.045).CONCLUSION There was insignificant association between LRTI and risk factors present in working room of garment industries. Most of the isolates were sensitive to Ciprofloxacin and resistance to Ampicillin and Cephalexin.Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2014, Vol-10, No-3, 14-22
Determination of Shape Transition Concentrations in Self-Assembled Surfactant Micelles by UV-Visible Spectrophotometry
Authors: Chen Ke , Cao Guobao , Huang Zhaoxi , Zhao Fenghui , Liu Min , Chen Yong
Published: July 2015

In this study, the first and second critical micelle concentration (FCMC and SCMC) were determined by recording the absorbance at various surfactant concentrations using a dye probe and ultra violet (UV)-visible spectrophotometer. This method could predict the concentrations of hexagonally packed rods and palisade layer structure of ionic surfactants. The UV-visible absorbance graphs were plotted at specific concentrations. Sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) were used as the model surfactants, and methylene blue was used as the dye probe. The FCMC and SCMC were obtained from the concentration vs. absorbance graphs. The results are in good agreement with those obtained from the fluorescence, scattering, conductivity, and surface tension measurements.
A Study of Relationship Between Oil-Water Interfacial Dilational Rheology and Oil Recovery of Alkaline Flooding
Authors: Wang Yang , Ge Jijiang , Zheng Yufei , Jiang Ping , Zhang Guicai
Published: July 2015

In order to find out the influence of dilational rheology on chemical flooding systems, the dilational rheology of Zhuangxi crude oil/NaOH solutions interface was investigated by DSA100 interfacial dilatational rheometer (KRÜSS, Germany). The results show that the alkaline system, which can enhance oil recovery, mainly depends on its interfacial dilational rheology, rather than interfacial tension. The greater the interfacial dilational elasticity, the higher the oil recovery is. The greater the interfacial dilational viscosity, the lower the oil recovery is. The conclusion is consistent with the change of displacement pressure in the macro displacement experiment and the change of sweep efficiency in the microscopic displacement experiment.
Surface and Fluorescence Studies of Bis-Sulfosuccinate Anionic Gemini Surfactants Derived from Dodecanol Using Different Flexible Methylene Chains as Spacers
Authors: Singh Vinayika , Tyagi Rashmi
Published: July 2015

An effort has been made to synthesize, characterize and evaluate the fluorescence and surface active properties of dodecanol based bis-sulfosuccinate anionic gemini surfactants using α,ω-dibromo alkanes (BSGSLA1,4; BSGSLA1,6 and BSGSLA1,8). The chemical structures of the synthesized surfactants were confirmed by spectroscopic analytical techniques viz. elementary analysis, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Numerous surface active properties viz. surface tension at CMC (ΥCMC), critical micelle concentration (CMC), efficiency of adsorption of surfactant (pC20), surface pressure at the CMC (πCMC), adsorption amount of surfactant (Γmax) and minimum area per molecule (Amin) were determined for synthesized surfactants. Low CMC value, larger pC20 consequently higher surface activity, higher Γmax value and lower Amin values for the surfactants with higher flexible spacer length [(CH2)8] were observed. The experimental data indicated that a gemini surfactant with a larger hydrophobic flexible spacer [(CH2)8] was more readily able to form micelles which leads to a lower CMC value, larger aggregation number, and a more closely packed micelle structure. The results also indicated that a greater aggregation number and a higher micropolarity can be achieved when concentration of gemini surfactants was increased.
A Subtle but Intractable Problem? Public Attitudes to Sectarianism in 2014
Authors: Ormston Rachel , Curtice John , Hinchliffe Stephen , Marcinkiewicz Anna
Published: July 2015

Discussion of sectarianism often focuses on evidence purporting to show discriminatory behaviour directed at Catholics or Protestants in Scotland. But attitudes also matter – in sustaining (or preventing) such discriminatory behaviours, and in understanding the nature of the ‘problem of sectarianism’ from the perspective of the Scottish public. This paper uses data from the Scottish Social Attitudes survey 2014. The survey fills a gap in the evidence base by providing robust evidence on what the public actually thinks about sectarianism in modern Scotland. It assesses public beliefs about the extent and nature of sectarianism and its perceived causes. Tensions in public opinion and differences in the attitudes of different sections of Scottish society are explored.
Sectarianism in Scotland: A ‘West of Scotland’ Problem, a Patchwork or a Cobweb?
Authors: Goodall Kay , McKerrell Simon , Markey John , Millar Stephen R. , Richardson Michael J.
Published: July 2015

Drawing on research carried out for the Scottish Government in 2014, this article explores how people experience sectarianism in Scotland today. For some, sectarianism is manifestly part of their everyday experience, but for others it is almost invisible in their social world. The article sets out a metaphor of sectarianism experienced like a cobweb in Scotland; running strongly down the generations and across masculine culture particularly, but experienced quite differently by different people depending on their social relationships. Using the examples of song and marching, the article suggests that sectarian prejudice should be conceived of as much as a cultural phenomenon as in social and legal terms. A multidisciplinary and intergenerational approach to tackling sectarian prejudice would help emphasise its cultural and relational construction. Much can also be learned from examining the broader research on prejudice worldwide, rather than treating Scottish sectarianism as if it is a unique and inexplicable quality of the national character.
The Sectarian Iceberg?
Authors: Rosie Michael
Published: July 2015

This article situates the contemporary evidential position on Scotland's sectarianism within some longer-term and ongoing debates. It does so by addressing three key aspects of sectarianism in Scotland. Firstly it explores long-standing concerns about sectarianism in Scotland, and the puzzle that sectarianism frequently seems to be someone else's problem. It then outlines some central evidential claims made about sectarianism in the 1980s and why our increasing knowledge about religion in Scotland's social structure appear to bear them out. Finally, the article concludes by questioning how far we can conceive of ‘Protestants’ and ‘Catholics’ as divided in the personal, informal and intimate spheres of contemporary Scottish life.
To See Ourselves As Others See Us
Authors: McCrone David
Published: July 2015

This article reviews the research agenda of the Scottish Government's Advisory Group on Tackling Sectarianism and what it has added to our understanding of sectarianism in Scotland. It takes a broad overview of the research, and the issues it seeks to impact upon. Sectarianism, it concludes, is about the hard politics of difference, and requires Scotland to confront who we are and who we would like to become.
Digital Dermatitis in Dairy Cows: A Review of Risk Factors and Potential Sources of Between-Animal Variation in Susceptibility
Authors: Palmer Maeve , O'Connell Niamh
Published: July 2015

Digital dermatitis (DD) is a bacterial disease that primarily affects the skin on the heels of cattle. It is a major cause of lameness in dairy cows and a significant problem for the dairy industry in many countries, causing reduced animal welfare and economic loss. A wide range of infection levels has been found on infected farms, prompting investigations into both farm level and animal level risk factors for DD occurrence. There also appears to be individual variation between animals in susceptibility to the disease. The identification of factors affecting individual variation in susceptibility to DD might allow changes in breeding policies or herd management which could be used to reduce DD prevalence. Factors mentioned in the literature as possibly influencing individual variation in susceptibility to DD include physical factors such as hoof conformation and properties of the skin, physiological factors such as the efficacy of the immune response, and behavioural factors such as standing half in cubicles. Further work is required to determine the influence of these factors, identify the genetic basis of variation, clarify the level of heritability of DD susceptibility and to determine how this is correlated with production and health traits currently used in breeding programmes.
Antimicrobial Resistance and Reduced Susceptibility in Clostridium difficile: Potential Consequences for Induction, Treatment, and Recurrence of C. difficile Infection
Authors: Baines Simon , Wilcox Mark
Published: July 2015

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) remains a substantial burden on healthcare systems and is likely to remain so given our reliance on antimicrobial therapies to treat bacterial infections, especially in an aging population in whom multiple co-morbidities are common. Antimicrobial agents are a key component in the aetiology of CDI, both in the establishment of the infection and also in its treatment. The purpose of this review is to summarise the role of antimicrobial agents in primary and recurrent CDI; assessing why certain antimicrobial classes may predispose to the induction of CDI according to a balance between antimicrobial activity against the gut microflora and C. difficile. Considering these aspects of CDI is important in both the prevention of the infection and in the development of new antimicrobial treatments.
The improved Hydrogen Storage Performances of the Multi-Component Composite: 2Mg(NH2)2–3LiH–LiBH4
Authors: Wang Han , Cao Hujun , Wu Guotao , He Teng , Chen Ping
Published: July 2015

2Mg(NH2)2–3LiH–LiBH4 composite exhibits an improved kinetic and thermodynamic properties in hydrogen storage in comparison with 2Mg(NH2)2–3LiH. The peak temperature of hydrogen desorption drops about 10 K and the peak width shrinks about 50 K compared with the neat 2Mg(NH2)2–3LiH. Its isothermal dehydrogenation and re-hydrogenation rates are respectively 2 times and 18 times as fast as those of 2Mg(NH2)2–3LiH. A slope desorption region with higher equilibrium pressure is observed. By means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses, the existence of Li2BNH6 is identified and its roles in kinetic and thermodynamic enhancement are discussed.
Exergy Analysis of a Two-Pass Reverse Osmosis (RO) Desalination Unit with and without an Energy Recovery Turbine (ERT) and Pressure Exchanger (PX)
Authors: Eshoul Nuri , Agnew Brian , Al-Weshahi Mohammed , Atab Mohanad
Published: July 2015

This paper presents an exergy analysis of an actual two-pass (RO) desalination system with the seawater solution treated as a real mixture and not an ideal mixture. The actual 127 ton/h two pass RO desalination plant was modeled using IPSEpro software and validated against operating data. The results show that using the (ERT) and (PX) reduced the total power consumption of the SWRO desalination by about 30% and 50% respectively, whereas, the specific power consumption for the SWRO per m3 water decreased from 7.2 kW/m3 to 5.0 kW/m3 with (ERT) and 3.6 kW/m3 with (PX). In addition, the exergy efficiency of the RO desalination improved by 49% with ERT and 77% with PX and exergy destruction was reduced by 40% for (ERT) and 53% for (PX). The results also showed that, when the (ERT) and (PX) were not in use, accounted for 42% of the total exergy destruction. Whereas, when (ERT) and (PX) are in use, the rejected seawater account maximum is 0.64%. Moreover, the (PX) involved the smallest area and highest minimum separation work.
An Environmentally-Friendly Tourist Village in Egypt Based on a Hybrid Renewable Energy System––Part Two: A Net Zero Energy Tourist Village
Authors: Diab Fahd , Lan Hai , Zhang Lijun , Ali Salwa
Published: July 2015

The main objective of this study is to discuss the economical and the environmental analysis of a net zero energy (NZE) tourist village in Alexandria, Egypt, by maximizing the renewable energy fraction and minimizing the greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions. The hybrid photovoltaics (PV)/wind/diesel/battery system is found to be the optimum hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) for the proposed tourist village under the study. The optimum HRES consists of 1600 kW of PV panels (58.09% solar energy penetration), 1000 kW of wind turbines (41.34% wind energy penetration), 1000 kW of power converters, 200 kW diesel generator (only 0.57% diesel generator penetration) in addition to 2000 batteries with the capacity of 589 Ah each. The levelized cost of energy (COE) from the optimum HRES is $0.17/kWh and the total net present cost (NPC) of this system is $15,383,360. Additionally, the maximum renewable energy fraction is 99.1% and the amount of GHG emitted from the optimum HRES is only 31,289 kg/year, which is negligible in comparison with the other system configurations, therefore the optimum HRES can be considered as a green system. In addition to this, the achieved percentage of the capacity shortage and the unmet load in the optimal HRES is only 0% for both.
Ejin Oasis Land Use and Vegetation Change between 2000 and 2011: The Role of the Ecological Water Diversion Project
Authors: Hu Xiaoli , Lu Ling , Li Xin , Wang Jianhua , Lu Xuegang
Published: July 2015

Ejin Oasis, located in the lower reaches of the Heihe River Basin (HRB), has experienced severe ecosystem decline between the 1960s and 1990s. In response, the Chinese Government implemented the Ecological Water Diversion Project (EWDP) in 2000. To evaluate the effects of the EWDP, this study monitored changes in land use and vegetation in the Ejin Oasis since 2000 and examined driving factors behind such changes. Results demonstrated that the Ejin Oasis ecosystem generally improved between 2000 and 2011. Water body area significantly increased. Lake area of once dried-up Sogo Nuur increased to 45 km2. Accordingly, vegetation cover restoration has also significantly increased. For example, the Seasonally Integrated Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (SINDVI) has shown that 31.18% of the entire study area experienced an increase in vegetation area. On the other hand, even though the EWDP has been successful in driving vegetation recovery and lake restoration, farmland reclamation has counteracted such restoration initiatives. Farmland area almost doubled between 2000 and 2011. Thus, farmland expansion management is necessary for the full restoration of the Ejin Oasis ecosystems as well as HRB sustainable development. The results of this study can provide a reference for the management of the HRB.