bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subsea Projects Cost Reduction - Petrobras Approach, Results and Next Steps
Authors: Moreira Matoso Ribeiro Gomes F. , Dal Pont A. , Maia Arantes F. , Cavalcanti Freitas G. A. , Rodrigues Marques M. A. , Souza Salvador M. de , Santos Poli P. R. , Oliveira R. Caldeira de , Laquini S. , Santos T. Duarte Fonseca dos , Gasparetto V.
Published: April 2017

The Oil and Gas industry has faced an unpredictable and fast transformation in the last years. At first, there were barrel prices over U$ 100 dollars, which motivated a huge worldwide investment that pushed operators and the supply chain to respond to unprecedented growth. Due to the downturn in the oil prices, the challenge has moved towards achieving project feasibility in a low Brent scenario. The Brazilian subsea oil and gas industry has struggled with this context. Initially, with the Pre-Salt discoveries in 2006 it was necessary to develop breakthrough technological solutions to face this new frontier and to build 10 ultra deep-water production systems happen in just 10 years. Due to the recent price drop, Petrobras subsea engineering area has faced a demand to develop simpler and cost efficient solutions to reduce Pre-Salt CAPEX and OPEX.

The objective of this paper is to review how Petrobras subsea area is dealing with these challenges since the discovery of Pre-Salt in 2006 until the current downturn of the oil and gas industry. As a reaction to that, Petrobras has been running an internal strategy called Subsea Cost Reduction Plan - PRCSub. The main purpose of this program is to search for the biggest cost reduction opportunities and to promote a full integration among Petrobras subsea team and suppliers.

The PRCSub has delivered excellent results. Around US$ 500 million in savings were registered between 2014 and 2015 in the subsea scope, and between 25% of CAPEX reduction was achieved in Pre-Salt developments due to optimization initiatives for subsea design.

The paper will present a review of the initiatives, describing the technical solutions and the new business model under construction by Petrobras.
Effects of Data Resolution on Early-Stage Pipeline Route Selection
Authors: Tiffany Justin M. , Devine Christine A.
Published: April 2017

At times, infield and export subsea pipeline routes are manually designed and sited in the early stages of a project using only existing, publicly available, low-resolution bathymetric data with minimal consideration for the geological complexity that may affect the proposed infrastructure. Geohazards across the development area may not be identified or could be misinterpreted based on the resolution of the available data. Selecting a pipeline route before a detailed geohazard assessment is completed may result in revisions to the route, taking up valuable time and resources, and leading to significant costs.

This paper describes the workflow of an example pipeline route optimization performed on multiple datasets with varying resolutions across the same study area. Each dataset was individually analyzed and assessed for regional geohazards, then least-cost pipeline routing methods were used for pipeline route selection. We show how least-cost route optimization is affected by data resolution, geohazard identification, and geocost weighted inputs and emphasize the importance of incorporating the highest resolution data available when conducting pipeline route optimization.
Collective Summary of DeepStar® Accomplishments within Continued Service
Authors: Gomes Joseph , Kusinski Greg
Published: April 2017

DeepStar® is an operator funded Research & Development joint industry consortium including members of the oil community such as oil & gas (O&G) companies, vendors, regulators and academic/research institutes working in multidisciplinary technology areas. The DeepStar Project has been in continuous operation since its inception in 1991, and has focused on both issues and technologies that are required to successfully tackle future development and production challenges identified by its members. These overall discussions are based on thought processes from initial equipment design, materials select and qualification, to implementing new subsea technology and continuous service or decommissioning. In recent years, DeepStar has focused improvement efforts within the area of continuous service, with a more recent focus on understanding the design for the complexity of decommissioning. This paper and corresponding presentation will highlight the successes of DeepStar's continuous service work during the conference within the Life Extension Challenges and Case Studies session. Through DeepStar, key issues have been identified and our work has progressed into the American Petroleum Institute SC2 subcommittee on offshore structures. DeepStar has recently completed three projects related to integrity management (IM) which includes risk based mooring integrity management, continuing service guidance for steel catenary risers, and ageing floating infrastructures.

This abstract outlines DeepStar's strategies, projects and accomplishments through a collaborative effort amongst operators, engineering firms, manufactories, academic intuitions, and government regulators. Through this joint effort, members have been able to minimize the cost and risk of technology development, while at the same time making the most of the organization's particular technology achievements. Deepstar's value to Participating Members has always been that it offers the opportunity to significantly leverage their technology investment. This aligns with DeepStar's vision for the development of deepwater technology, which is closely tied to the concept of cooperation and evolution of a synergistic relationship among the members within the O&G community. DeepStar has continuously confronted industry wide issues and provided a forum for discussion and technology acceleration.
Stones Development: Best in Class Risk Reduction and Cost Improvement During Project Execution
Authors: Pena Maria , Lohr Curtis
Published: April 2017

The Stones asset is an ultra-deepwater development located approximately 200 miles south of New Orleans in ~9500 feet of water . Final investment decision was taken in 2013, with first production achieved in September 2016. This development is part of the frontier Paleogene outboard play in the Lower Tertiary Trend that targets the Upper and Lower Wilcox formations.

In early 2014, a change management program was kicked off, originally centered on minimizing well construction risks. This change management program was organically grown, with cost and risk baselines being re-assessed bottoms up, and key opportunities identified.

Major improvements were obtained in the areas of minimization of risk and capital investment during the period of 2014 to 2016. Improved risk and cost themes centered on: (a) enhanced trade-off between subsea and well construction complexities; (b) improved subsurface imaging to increase flexibility in well trajectories; (c) deepened integration between completion choices and well designs; (d) technical functionality rationalization; and (e) supply chain improvements.

This paper highlights the key change management lessons learned that took place during the Stones project execution resulting in the project meeting the cost promise from project sanction.
Optimized Field Development Planning in the Frontier Paleogene
Authors: Varner Marc , Pena Maria
Published: April 2017

The Stones project is an ultra-deepwater development located ~200 miles south of New Orleans in the Walker Ridge ("WR") protraction area of the Gulf of Mexico. This development is part of the frontier Paleogene outboard play in the Lower Tertiary Trend that targets the Upper and Lower Wilcox formations.

The initial development (Phase 1) is planned for eight subsea wells directionally drilled from two drill centers with a production manifold located at each drill center. Dual 8″ flow lines will connect the two drill centers with dual 8″ risers connecting the drill centers to a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) host. Oil is exported by shuttle tankers with gas exported through the Walker Ridge Gas Gathering System. Mudline pumps will be located at the first drill center.

The current field development plan incorporates optimizations based on information gathered during the early execution phase of the project. These optimizations were identified through multi-disciplinary integration with a focus on risk management and best-for-project decision making. This paper highlights the subsurface learnings and associated modifications to the field development plan to mitigate risk, lower costs and increase ultimate recovery.
The Stones Buoy Turret Mooring BTM: The Evolution of Design Leading to the Delivery of the Largest Buoy Ever Built
Authors: Salem A. G. , Connaulte X. S. , Webb C.
Published: April 2017

This paper describes the evolution of the design leading to the selection, development and delivery of Stones disconnectable Buoyant Turret Mooring (BTM) buoy. The optimization process leading to the selection and configuration of the BTM buoy is discussed, with particular focus given to the mooring- riser system payloads supported by the BTM when in the disconnected state.

A hybrid design, featuring syntactic foam buoyancy modules integrated into a steel structural skeleton, and incorporating a minimal number of steel ballast tanks, was selected over a conventional all steel buoyant hull structure. The selected design provides for a protective steel cage for the buoyancy modules, and a structural path for mooring-riser system loads into the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO), while a large number of syntactic foam blocks are secured within the steel frame to provide adequate buoyancy to meet the in-service performance requirements. A qualitative discussion about the advantages of the selected geometry and hybrid steel-foam design is presented, including the performance characteristics of disconnection, submergence equilibrium and ballasting.

Beyond the design evolution considerations including concept selection and optimization, attention is given to manufacturing, constructability, offshore installation and operability under the latest US Gulf of Mexico (GOM) regulatory regime. The buoy's transit voyage from Singapore to the GOM for the initial offshore integration with the FPSO necessitated Transport and Installation (T&I) requirements which were embedded into the design and integration of all BTM buoy components. Buoy ballasting and de-ballasting strategy after mooring hookup and riser connection played a pivotal role in sizing critical components and equipment. In this context, the paper will explore the interrelations between design and operations in order to optimize the loading requirements.

The design decisions leading to the selection of geometries, materials and configurations of the largest and deepest offshore mooring installation are discussed. A novel solution is developed to accommodate a complex deepwater installation with a large payload mooring-riser system. Feedback on onshore fabrication and offshore integration and operations are presented.
HP/HT Sensor for Real-Time Downhole Density Measurement of Wellbore Drilling Mud
Authors: Hall J. E. , Tiliakos N. , Worst T. , Foster R. B. , Pappas J. M. , Long R.
Published: April 2017

There is a need to accurately measure the density of drilling mud and well flow rate at downhole locations in the wellbore. Mud density can be determined by measuring the differential pressure between two locations in the well. The most common manner of measuring flow rate is also through the use of a differential pressure sensor. The development of a true differential pressure (DP) sensor for downhole measurement at HP/HT conditions (500 Deg F and at 15,000 psi) was presented at the 2015 OTC (paper #25772-MS). The excellent performance of the initial two DP sensors led to the fabrication and testing of additional DP and absolute pressure cells to verify the design.

Since the performance of the DP sensors showed a maximum error at each of the HP/HT extremes of less than 0.02% of the upper-range limit, their use with remote diaphragms to measure the density of the drilling mud in the wellbore was considered a possibility. If successful, this measurement could be integrated into a wired drill string to not only indicate the occurrence of a ‘kick’ during drilling, but also provide unprecedented monitoring and control of unwanted changes in mud density throughout the entire length of the drill string annulus. This would provide significantly improved early warning and control of dangerous high-pressure flow into the wellbore.

Additional funding by the RPSEA 10121-4304-01 program allowed for the development of a low-differential pressure range sensor cell with a significant increase in sensitivity to a change in density of the wellbore drilling mud. Sensor performance data was obtained: (i) at ambient temperature and various common mode pressures and (ii) at ambient common mode pressure and various sensor temperatures up to 250°C.

The calibration results of the HP/HT downhole DP sensor cell with remote diaphragms indicated adequate ‘kick’ detection sensitivity to enhance drilling safety in high-pressure zones. Additionally, possible methodologies to integrate the wellbore density sensor assembly into the drill string will be discussed.
Combining FPSO and Subsea Processing for Optimized Field Development
Authors: Gyllenhammar E. , Duvall S. , Gabelloni M.
Published: April 2017

In a time of prolonged low oil prices and uncertainty in the future outlook for the oil and gas industry, oil companies and operators are looking for innovative ways of combining available technologies in order to maximize hydrocarbon production while minimizing the need for new significant investments. The scope of this paper is to present optimized field development strategies by erasing the boundaries between FPSO design and subsea architecture, which can result in step-change CAPEX reductions and increase recoverable reserves. The goal has been to identify repeatable and cost effective configurations that are relevant for a wide range of applications. Based on Aker Solutions’ and SBM Offshore’s respective technologies and expertise within field development, various case studies have been completed and optimal technical solutions identified. These solutions are presented and discussed, and include: (1) subsea water removal and re-injection for brownfield applications with an existing FPSO, in order to extend the FPSO’s useful life on a watering-out field and lowering wellhead pressure, (2) enabling new subsea tie-backs to an FPSO of several small stranded fields, by leveraging subsea boosting with subsea power distribution to minimize the need for turret modifications, (3) combine a smaller standardized lease FPSO with subsea separation for brownfields that have reached the end of their economic lives, in order to allow the existing central processing facility to be decommissioned while the field continues to generate cash with a new less costly configuration.
Use of Multibeam Echo Sounder MBES Backscatter and Bathymetry Data to Reveal New Insights into the Campeche Escarpment
Authors: McBee J. , Brumley K. , Mitchell G. , Gharib J.
Published: April 2017

The Campeche Escarpment is a prominent feature extending over 600 km along the northern flank of the Yucatan Peninsula with steep cliff faces of up to 80° and a relief of over 4000 m. Analysis of Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES) backscatter and bathymetry data reveal new insights into the cliff-forming geologic units as well as largescale erosional processes on the Campeche shelf.

In 2013, the R/V Falkor collected MBES bathymetry and backscatter data sonars in the area of the Campeche Escarpment using Kongsberg EM302 30 kHz and EM710 70 kHz MBES systems. We use Fledermaus GeoCoder to process backscatter data, and ArcGIS to create mosaic of all survey lines. Fledermaus is then used to create a 3D representation of the dataset.

We delineate the escarpment into four geomorphic provinces based on submarine canyon density and morphology, as well as pronounced geomorphological differences formed in response to erosional processes along-strike of the Campeche Escarpment. Analysis of backscatter data reveals a high backscatter intensity unit comprising the steep cliff faces of the Campeche Escarpment. Due to the high backscatter intensity of the unit, we infer this to be a carbonate unit, which is also associated with the K-Pg boundary layer as previously reported by Paull et al. (2014) based on a steep bathymetric change and constrained by cores from DSDP Sites 86 and 94. Large-scale retrogressive-appearing erosion has left high-angle breaks where slabs of sediment have eroded the escarpment edge, thus giving the slope a terraced appearance. This erosion reveals higher backscatter intensity material overlain with remnants of lower backscatter intensity sediments within the slide scar. We infer the high backscatter intensity material to be carbonate layers on which erosion occurred. The stark contrast observed in MBES backscatter data between high intensity carbonate material and lower intensity sediments, refines and constrains the location of the K-Pg boundary layer exposed along the Campeche escarpment and provides new insights into the erosional styles of the Campeche escarpment.

MBES backscatter analysis is a low cost method that yields a more detailed assessment of surface material than bathymetry alone. This proves to be a powerful tool; enabling further inferences about geomorphic features and geologic characteristics of a study area, and as an efficient means of locating seafloor hydrocarbon seeps.
Development of Nanotechnology Pipe Treatment to Improve Acoustic Cement Evaluation
Authors: Heathman James , Fuller George , Taylor Rebecca , Arumugam Ganesh , Sullivan Patrick , Thapa Sumil , Veedu Vinod
Published: April 2017

The bond between casing and cement placed in the annulus is an important aspect to wellbore construction. Bond is inferred after the cement has cured using acoustic methods well-known in the industry. This evaluation is dependent on the acoustic coupling between the cement and the pipe. If acoustic coupling exists, proper evaluation allows for a subjective assessment of the cement sheath behind casing. However, if the acoustic coupling is weak, non-existent, or has been damaged by operations such as pressure testing or stimulation treatments, the cement may be present but cannot be properly evaluated, leading to ambiguous conclusions and ultimately unnecessary remedial cementing.

Enhancements to the casing/cement bond is achieved by use of surfactants, expansion agents, and other chemicals added to the cement slurry and/or spacer. Modification to completion practices is sometimes practiced to prevent bond disturbance. Modifications to the mechanical properties of the cement sheath are also done in an attempt to prevent or limit the permanent deformation to the cement sheath that occurs during these load events. All have varying degrees of success and cost.

Attempts to modify the surface of the steel pipe have been practiced for several decades with varying results. The simplest and most effective has been to grit-blast the casing to remove mill varnish, as varnish highly hydrophobic and not conducive to cement bonding. Grit blasting also leaves the surface slightly roughened, which has been proven to improve both shear bond and acoustic transmittance. Coatings have been attempted in the past, usually based on altering the surface roughness by adhering grit using an adhesive.

None of the afore-mentioned methods practiced to date have addressed two fundamentals: (1) carbon steel is naturally hydrophobic, and (2) cement and steel do not form a chemical bond. The purpose of this project was to address these short-comings by developing a method to modify the external surface of oil well pipe making it super-hydrophilic, and at the same time attempt to create a chemical bond to cement.

Through a collaborative working relationship between this major operator and a small innovative technology company, a successful nano-technology treatment process has been developed and field tested in both unconventional and Deepwater environments. This paper will chronicle the project from concept development to lab proof-of-concept, several field trials, and provide a review of the lessons learned along the way. Comparative cement evaluation logs will be reviewed that show a significant improvement in some cases between the treated pipe and pipe that is either unmodified or grit-blasted.
DeepStar® Global Offshore Technology Development Program 12504: Real-time Monitoring for Critical Barriers
Authors: Mason S. L. , Burnett W. T. , Lewis D. B , Gomes Joseph , Kusinski Greg
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we will share the results of the collaborative efforts completed during Phase XII of the DeepStar joint industry technology development project; specifically, the results of CTR 12504, Real-time Monitoring for Critical Barriers, which was conducted within the X500 Drilling and Completions committee in 2016. We will outline the process used to identify the critical data needed to verify and maintain primary and secondary barriers to flow within deepwater wells, required to conduct safe offshore drilling operations.

The objectives of Real-time Monitoring for Critical Barriers were to identify and define critical data sources required for the real-time monitoring of both, the drilling margins and physical safety barriers. The use of real-time data monitoring has now become a regulatory requirement for US deepwater and critical well operations.

The scope of this work covered the Drilling, Completion, Well Testing and Well Intervention phases of a well's life cycle. An international perspective was employed by integrating the barrier strategies of API RP 96, NORSOK D-10, IOGP Reports 415 / 544, UKOG Well Life Cycle Integrity Guidelines, 30 CFR Part 250 Final Rule and NAS TRB Report 322. From these documents, the common themes and definitions were examined to produce a matrix that defined the primary and secondary barrier envelopes, identify the rig sensors for their validation, then insure that they are verified and maintained during the various operations conducted over the life of the well.

The real-time data monitoring, considered in this effort, included sensors on the drilling rig's hoisting and mud systems, downhole tools, and to the largely independent sub-sea BOP stack. While the rig and downhole tool sensing equipment is fairly standardized across the industry, the same cannot be said for sub-sea BOP systems. While individual BOP vendor systems share similar overall design structures, the sensors, measurement protocols, system architecture, and data processing are unique to each. Secondary activation systems (i.e., acoustic, ROV) are also unique to each vendor.

This paper addresses real-time monitoring as it applies the verification and monitoring of barrier elements.
Unconventional Shale Gas Development in Saudi and Algeria - Assessment Using USA Key Success Factors Framework
Authors: Zeid A. , Lee J.
Published: April 2017

About 40 years ago, the USA started to develop unconventional gas resources, and success has escalated in recent years. From 2005 to 2015, domestic shale gas increased from 4% to 56% of total USA gas production. Outside North America, many countries, including Saudi Arabia and Algeria, aspire to achieve similar success.

Both countries have focused on and invested in developing shale gas through their respective national oil and gas companies. This paper presents our research into the progress of development in both countries.

We applied the framework outlined in our earlier paper, SPE 183443, and in this current paper we provide highlights, lowlights and specific recommendations based on efforts to date and for the future.

Our research on shale gas development in Algeria and Saudi Arabia was based solely on publically available information, to which we applied our framework presented previously. The framework uses the experience in the USA as the basis for evaluating efforts to develop, assess and expedite shale gas development in other countries. In our previous publication, we applied the methodology to analyze shale gas development in China and Poland. Our analysis framework divides the dominant factors into two categories: the first includes subsurface factors related to drilling and fracturing of the shale systems, and the second contains several technical and non-technical surface factors which include involvement of the State (which has consistently directed and stimulated unconventional gas development in all countries), the roles of oil and gas operating companies, the role of service companies, the availability of required materials and water, the related logistical capability, and the gas market and gas infrastructure.
Effect of Hydrogen Bake-Out on Copper Plated Alloy 718
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Xu Zhiyue , Agosta Paul , Bailey Bill
Published: April 2017

Copper electroplating is often used as an anti-galling surface treatment in the oil and gas industry, particularly on metal-to-metal sealing threads made from corrosion resistant alloys. It has been reported that during the plating process, hydrogen atoms may be generated in sufficient amount to embrittle the substrate. For high strength steels, a post-plating hydrogen bake out is recommended by the industry to drive out the hydrogen and restore ductility. A literature search on the efficacy of a bake out for precipitation-hardened (PH) nickel alloys produced no results. Therefore, a laboratory study was conducted to determine if a post-plating bake out on nickel alloy 718 is effective in removing hydrogen from the sample.

The study simulated a worst case hydrogen ingress scenario during commercial plating of alloy 718. Intentionally bad electroplating parameters (high cathode current density, low pH, and addition of sulfur and chloride ions impurities in the plating bath) were used to introduce hydrogen into the sample. Before plating, the samples were cathodically charged to simulate hydrogen ingress during the pre-cleaning or pickling step. After copper plating, the bake out parameters used were: 200°C or 400°C for 4 hours in air. The hydrogen depth profile in the samples was measured before and after the bake out by glow discharge optical emission spectroscope (GDOES). The results suggest that the hydrogen bake out did not remove the hydrogen from the alloy. Rather, a tighter control of the electro-plating solution and parameters is recommended to prevent the ingress of hydrogen in the first place.
New data on the Oriental Xantholinini 39. New species and new records from the Philippines (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) 267th contribution to the knowledge of the Staphylinidae
Authors: Bordoni Arnaldo
Published: April 2017

The following species are described for the listed islands of Philippines: Metolinus finettii sp. n. (Palawan), M. cleopatranus sp. n. (Palawan), M. elegans sp. n. (Mindanao), M. insularis sp. n. (Mindanao), Erymus elytratus sp. n. (Mindanao), Xanthophius philippinus sp. n. (Panay), Manilla rufula sp. n. (Mindanao), M. maramag sp. n. (Mindanao). New records are listed. The following species are new records for the listed islands: Ulisseus dispilus (Erichson, 1839) (Panay, Mindanao), Thyreocephalus hongkongensis (Redtenbacher, 1867) (Palawan), Thyreocephalus rufus Cameron, 1941 (Negros); Thyreocephalus omaleus Bordoni, 2002 (Luzon), Thyreocephalus dustucheus Bordoni, 2002 (Mindanao), Metolinus libertatis Bordoni, 2002 (Negros); Phacophallus pallidipennis (Motschulsky, 1858) (Palawan).
Towards a metamodern academic study of religion and a more religiously informed metamodernism
Authors: Clasquin-Johnson Michel
Published: April 2017

The academic study of religion has long enjoyed a variety of philosophies and methodologies. A new entrant to this list has now arisen: metamodernism. This article examines the claims of metamodernism and makes an initial attempt to relate it to the academic study of religion, both in its guise as Religious Studies and, more tentatively, as the Theological sciences. Metamodernism, with its emphasis on oscillation and simultaneity, shows great promise as an explanatory framework to understand certain current religious developments, such as the ‘Spiritual but not Religious’ phenomenon. It may also assist in creating a growing convergence between the various branches of the academic study of religion.
The yield of pathological findings from routine screening chest X-rays in a military population
Authors: Van der Westhuizen Gerhard , Naude Mianda , Nel Mariette
Published: April 2017

No abstract available.
Computerised tomography findings in lymphobronchial tuberculosis: A comparison between infants and older children
Authors: Hanekom Heleen , Lucas Susan , Andronikou Savvas , Goussard Pierre , Gie Robert P.
Published: April 2017

No abstract available.
Juvenile xanthogranuloma: Awakening of the other histiocytosis?
Authors: Ramlakhan Raksha , Wieselthaler Nicky , Sood Vishesh , Pillay Komala
Published: April 2017

No abstract available.
Writing Well: The Long-Term Effect on Empathy, Observation, and Physician Writing Through a Residency Writers' Workshop
Authors: Lemay Megan , Encandela John , Sanders Lisa , Reisman Anna
Published: April 2017

Background

Writing narratives during medical training can provide a way to derive meaning from challenging experiences, enhance reflection, and combat burnout. The Yale Internal Medicine Residency Writers' Workshop, an annual 2-day intensive workshop followed by faculty-guided writing revision and publication, has been training resident physicians in the craft of writing since 2003.

Objective

The study aimed to assess the long-term effects of a craft-focused writers' workshop for residents on empathy, observation skills, and future writing.

Methods

A survey of closed and open-ended questions was sent to former workshop participants (2003–2013), who rated and described the workshop's influence on their observation skills, empathy, improvement in writing, and continued informal and formal writing. A total of 89 of 130 participants (68%) completed the online survey. We identified key themes in written responses and collected quantitative ratings on a 5-point Likert scale of self-reported influence on these factors. Simple statistics and narrative analysis were used to derive results.

Results

Most participants agreed or strongly agreed that the workshop influenced their ability for careful observation (72 of 85, 85%); ability to be empathic with patients or colleagues (51 of 77, 66%); quality of writing (69 of 77, 90%); and continued formal or informal writing (52 of 77 [68%] and 41 of 77 [53%], respectively). Participants felt the workshop improved their attention to detail, provided a deeper understanding of others' experiences, and improved their writing.

Conclusions

Participants in a residency writers' workshop experienced lasting effects on observation, empathy, and writing skills.
Structure and ultrastructure of oogenic stage in short mackerel Rastrelliger brachysoma (Teleostei: Scombidae)
Authors: Senarat S. , Kettratad J. , Jiraungkoorskul W.
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Structure, ultrastructural features and degeneration of oogenesis were first investigated in female Rastrelliger brachysoma as new candidate species for aquaculture by transmission electron microscopy. Materials and Methods: Specimens were naturally collected during the breeding season from Samut Songkhram Province, Thailand. Results: The ultrastructure of female oogenesis was principally divided into five stages based on the nuclear characterization and cytoplasmic organelles; (i) oogonium; (ii) previtellogenic; (iii) lipid and cortical alveolar; (iv) early and (v) late vitellogenic stages. Initially, oogonium was present within cell nest in the epithelial compartment. Its cell was supported by prefollicular cells. The multiple nucleoli in previtellogenic stage, referring to primary growth stage were the first to appear and they were scattered around the peripheral of nuclear membrane with the increasing number of cytoplasmic organelles. Some microvilli of granulosa cell initially protruded into the vitelline envelope. A simple layer of flattened granulosa and theca cells was also observed. The lipid and cortical alveolar stage under secondary growth oocyte was accumulated with two inclusions; the lipid droplets and cortical alveoli in the ooplasm. Another characterization, the increasing of numerous microvilli was also detected in the vitelline envelope. Finally, in the vitellogenic stage, a massive uptake and processing of proteins into yolk platelets due to embedding of the numerous microvilli in the largest vitelline envelope was observed. Oocyte degeneration in R. brachysoma was novel found especially oogonial and previtellogenic stages. Conclusion: Five oogenic stages of this fish are found with the changing of the arrangement of nucleus, cytoplasmic organelles and follicular complex, which will be applied to further studies.
Aneurysm of the abdominal aorta with associated atheroma and bilateral renal atrophy: a case report
Authors: Campos D. , Goulart G. , Pacini G. , Thomaz L. , Bonatto-Costa J. , Oliveira Junior L. , Malysz T. , Rocha A.
Published: April 2017

Introduction: An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) (pathological enlargement of the aorta) can be developed in both men and women as they grow older. Patients present with atypical symptoms such as abdominal or flank pain, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, or shock. AAAs are among the main causes of death. The high morbidity and mortality associated with aneurysm rupture and repair represents a challenge for surgeons and high risk for patients. Therefore, AAA is a vascular condition that deserves constant attention, both for screening studies as therapeutic improvement. In screening studies, the prevalence of AAA in women is relatively rare (1%). Materials and methods and results: During routine activities in the Laboratory of Human Anatomy from Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Brazil, it was observed a 87 years old female cadaver with AAA and with associated atheroma and bilateral renal atrophy. Conclusion: This study reported a case of AAA emphasizing some morphological, functional and clinical data about this vascular abnormality, in order to offer useful information to anatomists, radiologists, and surgeons.
Critical analysis of aortic dysmorphism in Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Souza R. , Cassiano L. , Liberatore A. , Tedesco R. , Koh I. , Martins A. , Vretos C. , Alonso L.
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Marfan syndrome (OMIM #154700) was described for the first time in 1896 by Antoine Bernard-Jean Marfan. It is characterized by its autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, affects 1:5000 of those born alive, and involves the gene that codifies the structural protein fribrillin-1. Fibrillin-1 is critical for the formation of the elastic system backbone and for the negative regulation of the cytokine transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). In the syndrome this fibrillar component causes the degeneration of the fibers of the elastic system, which no longer sequesters matrix TGF-β, causing disorganization of the collagen fibers and vascular smooth muscles. The disease affects mainly the cardiovascular system, cardiovascular problems being the main cause of death. This is because arteries have large amounts of elastic fibers that rupture in an adverse process, causing mainly dissections and aneurisms, which have been better clariied in experimental studies with mice. Objective: The objective of this study was to conduct an etiopathogenic and molecular review to describe the advances in the understanding of blood vessel dysmorphism in the syndrome, especially of the aorta. Materials and Methods: For this purpose the literature of the last 35 years was extensively reviewed. Conclusion: The origin of the aortic dysmorphism in the syndrome stems from a number of events that begin with the mutation of the gene fibrillin-1, causing fragmentation of the aortic elastic fibers. Excess cytokine TGF-β increases the amount of metalloproteinases and of vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis, leading to matrix remodeling and increasing the susceptibility of the vessel to an aneurysm or dissecting process.
Anatomical and clinical relevance of elongated styloid process in a sample of the Colombian population
Authors: Baena-Caldas G. , Rojas-Zuluaga S. , Peckham X.
Published: April 2017

Introduction: The styloid process is a cone-shaped process of the temporal bone with a normal length of 20 to 30 mm. It is considered “elongated” when its length is greater than 30mm. A temporal styloid process with a length of 25mm or more may cause Eagle's syndrome, a condition characterized by multiple clinical symptoms that can be explained by the anatomical relationships of the styloid process. The length of the styloid process depends on demographic variables such as race and geographical distribution; therefore normal patterns may vary among different populations. Due to its non-specific clinical manifestations, it would be relevant to know its prevalence in a specific population. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of styloid process elongation in a sample of the Colombian population. Material and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional, observational descriptive study. The length of 46 styloid processes from their origin to their vertex was determined in 46 hemifacial dissections. The corresponding right or left side of the head of the styloid process was also recorded. Results: The obtained average length of styloid processes was 35.1 ± 13.2 mm. 23 styloid processes (50%) measured over 30 mm, and 38 processes (82.6%) measured 25 mm or more. Conclusion: Since previous reports have shown that the onset of symptoms is variable and sometimes independent of the length of the styloid process, we suggest that the angulation of the styloid process is a clinical consideration as important as the length of the styloid process.
Organising pneumonia due to dronedarone
Authors: Thornton D , Avery S , Edey AJ , Medford ARL
Published: April 2017

Organising pneumonia is one of the responses of the lung to injury and can mimic bacterial pneumonia but importantly it does not respond to antibiotic therapy. We present the case of a 67-year-old male who was diagnosed with organising pneumonia secondary to dronedarone. Drug reactions are a common cause and early identification of the culprit is mandatory to prevent further morbidity and ensure a favourable outcome. On chest radiography there may be fleeting peripheral consolidation, while computed tomography can show a range of stereotyped patterns including perilobular consolidation. Bronchoscopic biopsy may not always be possible but response to steroids is often rapid following removal of the culprit drug. Dronedarone should be included in the list of possible drugs and the Pneumotox database remains a useful resource for the clinician when acute drug-related pneumotoxicity is suspected.
The diagnostic criteria of pityriasis rosea and Gianotti-Crosti syndrome – a protocol to establish diagnostic criteria of skin diseases
Authors: Chuh A , Zawar V , Sciallis GF , Lee A
Published: April 2017

We established and validated diagnostic criteria for pityriasis rosea and Gianotti-Crosti syndrome. In this paper, we compare and contrast both diagnostic criteria to formulate a protocol in establishing diagnostic criteria for other dermatological diseases.

The diagnostic criteria are similar in employing clear dividing lines and conjunctions (‘and/or') to assure high reliability. Both sets of criteria should be applicable for all ethnic groups. Spontaneous remission is not included, so diagnosis is not delayed while waiting for disease remission. Laboratory investigations are not enlisted, so that the criteria can be used in medical care systems in different parts of the world.

The diagnostic criteria are different in that pathognomonic clinical manifestations exist for pityriasis rosea, such as the herald patch and the orientation of lesions along the lines of skin cleavages. These features, however, score low for sensitivity. These specific manifestations are not seen in Gianotti-Crosti syndrome. Such differences led to different categorisation of clinical features. Atypical variants are more common for pityriasis rosea. The diagnostic criteria for pityriasis rosea therefore do not include a list of differential diagnoses, while diagnostic criteria for Gianotti-Crosti syndrome do.

Using this comparison, we constructed a protocol to establish diagnostic criteria for other skin diseases. We advocate the need to justify the establishment of diagnostic criteria, that multiple diagnostic criteria for the same disease should be avoided, that diagnostic criteria should be compatible with the disease classification if applicable, and that the scope should be well-delineated with regard to clinical variants. We outline the need for validation studies to assess the criteria-related validity, test-retest intra-clinician reliability, and inter-clinician reliability. We emphasise that the establishment of diagnostic criteria should not be a generic process. We also highlight limitations of diagnostic criteria, and emphasise that no diagnostic criteria can replace the bedside experience of clinicians.
The invention of gonioscopy by Alexios Trantas and his contribution to ophthalmology
Authors: Kalantzis G , Georgalas I , Tsiamis C , El-Hindy N , Poulakou-Rebelakou E
Published: April 2017

Gonioscopy is a technique used to examine structures in the anterior chamber angle (the fluid filled space inside the eye between the iris and the innermost layer of the cornea, the endothelium). It is an essential tool in ophthalmic practice, particularly in the diagnosis of glaucoma. In 1899, the Greek ophthalmologist Alexios Trantas was the first to visualise the angle in vivo and coined the term ‘gonioscopy'. He made a number of other important contributions to ophthalmology.
A Dickensian origin for Sherrington's enchanted loom?
Authors: O'Brien J , Bracewell RM
Published: April 2017

Sherrington's image of the mind-brain as an ‘enchanted loom’ has intrigued scientists for decades. Its origin, however, has been unclear. Here, we make a new suggestion as to where it may have come from. The article sheds light on the connections between literary and scientific similes and metaphors.
The history of stress hyperglycaemia
Authors: Balasanthiran A , Shotliff K
Published: April 2017

Stress hyperglycaemia, is a common phenomenon, frequently associated with adverse outcomes in a number of prevalent conditions including myocardial infarction and stroke. Knowledge on stress hyperglycaemia evolved in tandem with knowledge relating to homeostasis, stress and disease and involved some of the world's most eminent thinkers. Despite this, it still remains under-recognised.

This paper illustrates significant points in the history of stress hyperglycaemia, from antiquity through to the present day, as well as the challenges faced in translating research into clinical benefit for patients. Profiles of significant protagonists including Claude Bernard, Walter Cannon and Hans Seyle are presented, as well their roles in the emergence of modern-day terminology and pathophysiological models. Major themes such as ‘fight or flight’ and homeostasis are central to this discussion.

Closer to the present day, the role of stress hyperglycaemia in a number of common medical conditions is explored in more detail. Contention around evidence for treatment and the future risk of diabetes mellitus are also discussed.
Analgesic drugs and the gut – a reciprocal relationship
Authors: Lawrence R
Published: April 2017

Analgesic drugs, as well as providing pain relief, can cause a range of other symptoms and side effects, most notably on the gastrointestinal system. Conversely, gastrointestinal disease will often require analgesia, and this can be complicated by the fact that the gut is the site of absorption of oral drugs. This paper discusses some of the effects of common oral analgesic drugs on the gastrointestinal tract and their role in managing some of the most common, non-malignant, chronic gastrointestinal disorders in adults.
Dr Syntax's view of Edinburgh medicine: The life and pictures of John Sheriff (1775–1844)
Authors: Kennaway J
Published: April 2017

From the 1820s to the 1840s, one of the most recognisable figures in Edinburgh was the eccentric John Sheriff, generally known as Dr Syntax. He was a talented amateur artist, whose work provides a fascinating and strange insight into the mind of a troubled man and, because of his interest in medicine, into the history of medicine in Scotland at the time. This paper seeks to show that Sheriff and his pictures deserve to be remembered, since they offer intriguing insights for anyone interested in the history of medicine and of Edinburgh at the end of its Golden Age.
Effect of Temperature, Bicarbonate, and MEG Concentrations on CO2 Corrosion of Carbon Steels
Authors: Ekawati Dian , Berntsen Tonje , Seiersten Marion , Hemmingsen Tor
Published: April 2017

The CO2 corrosion of two mild steels has been studied as function of monoethylene glycol (MEG) and bicarbonate concentration at conditions where FeCO3 precipitation was sparse. The steel coupons were anodically polarized to obtain a surface with protruding carbide typical for corroding carbon steel. The corrosion rate clearly decreased with increasing MEG concentration and somewhat with bicarbonate concentrations. The corrosion potential decreased with increasing alkalinity, but was little affected by the MEG concentration. The cathodic reaction was under mixed control when the alkalinity was less than 10 mmol/kg, but became more activation controlled at higher alkalinity. At low alkalinity and low pH, the anodic Tafel slope was determined to be 40 mV/decade to 50 mV/decade. In solutions with 50 wt% MEG at higher alkalinity, the Tafel slope was 60 mV/decade to 70 mV/decade.