bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapeamento das áreas de preservação permanente e dos fragmentos florestais naturais como subsidio à averbação de reserva legal em imóveis rurais
Authors: Soares Vicente Paulo , Moreira Adelson de Azevedo , Ribeiro Carlos Antonio Alvares Soares , Gleriani José Marinaldo
Published: September 2014

Conduziu-se este trabalho, com o objetivo principal de identificar e quantificar os fragmentos florestais aptos para averbação como reserva legal, nos imóveis rurais da bacia hidrográfica do ribeirão São Bartolomeu, município de Viçosa, MG. Os procedimentos metodológicos incluíram: 1) o mapeamento de 78 fragmentos florestais mediante interpretação visual de uma imagem Ikonos II ortorretificada; 2) a delimitação das Áreas de Preservação Permanente a partir de um modelo digital de elevação hidrograficamente condicionado e 3) o mapeamento de 292 imóveis rurais por meio de entrevistas com os proprietários, utilizando uma imagem do sensor Ikonos no formato analógico. Em seguida, efetuaram-se cruzamentos dos mapas gerados, permitindo a identificação dos fragmentos passíveis de serem averbados como reserva legal do imóvel. Os resultados indicaram que, do total de imóveis avaliados, apenas 41 (14,04%) possuem acima de 20% de cobertura florestal, estando aptos a atenderem a legislação ambiental no que se refere à reserva legal.
Identificação das áreas de preservação permanente no município de Alegre utilizando geotecnologia
Authors: Eugenio Fernando Coelho , Santos Alexandre Rosa dos , Louzada Franciane Lousada Rubini de Oliveria , Pimentel Leonardo Bergantini , Moulin Janine Varanda
Published: September 2014

Devido à necessidade de estudos atuais sobre as Áreas de Preservação Permanentes (APPs) para o município de Alegre-ES, propõem-se, neste estudo, demonstrar como a utilização de Geotecnologias pode ajudar de forma eficaz o mapeamento dessas áreas, auxiliando no entendimento das áreas a serem preservadas no município. O estudo foi realizado em todo o município de Alegre,ES, com o objetivo de elaborar mapas analógicos e digitais do município, com o auxílio de Geotecnologias; delimitar as Áreas de Preservação Permanente na ótica da Legislação Ambiental e ressaltar a importância de identificar as áreas de forma automática para que se possam implantar projetos ambientais que visem a promover ações em busca de um relacionamento sustentável entre homem e ambiente de forma mais eficiente. O município de Alegre possui uma área de 336,39 km² de APPs totais (43,50% da área total do município). A metodologia adotada para delimitação automática das APPs foi eficiente, revelando que as mesmas , ao redor de nascentes (buffer de 50 m), nas encostas com declividade superior a 45 graus, topo de morro (terço superior de morros) e margens dos cursos d'água (buffer de 30 m) representaram respectivamente 9,86 km² (1,27%), 8,99 km² (1,16%), 237,35 km² (30,69%) e 95,11 km² (12,30%) da área total do município.
Análise da viabilidade econômica de povoamentos de Tectona grandis submetidos a desbastes no Mato Grosso
Authors: Bezerra Adham Ferreira , Milagres Flaviana Reis , Silva Márcio Lopes da , Leite Helio Garcia
Published: September 2014

Conduziu-se este estudo, com o objetivo de analisar a viabilidade econômica de um povoamento de Tectona grandis submetido a desbastes, no Estado do Mato Grosso e compará-lo a outros plantios de teca no estado. Foram simuladas 4 alternativas de manejo florestal, com variações nas intensidades dos desbastes realizados, aos 5, 10 e 15 anos de idade. Foi considerado um horizonte de planejamento de 20 anos, sendo essa a idade de corte final. Independentemente da alternativa de manejo fl orestal adotada, todas se mostraram inviáveis economicamente, para o povoamento analisado, a partir da utilização do método do Valor Presente Líquido (VPL) e também pela Taxa Interna de Retorno (TIR). Esse comportamento pode ser explicado pelo ritmo de crescimento da floresta, que, neste estudo, mostrou-se muito lento, sendo possível inferir sobre a inviabilidade desse empreendimento. Com base em informações de outros plantios de teca no Estado do Mato Grosso, foi projetado um novo cenário de crescimento e realizada nova análise econômica. E, a partir deste, todas as alternativas de manejo foram consideradas viáveis para a produção de madeira em toras, pelo método do VPL, e também pela TIR, sendo que a alternativa de 35, 35 e 25% de redução em área basal, para as idades de 5, 10 e 15 anos, respectivamente, foi a mais rentável. A TIR para as alternativas de manejo mais rentáveis, chegaram à 12%, acima da taxa mínima de atratividade considerada neste trabalhado, que foi de 10%.
Avaliação da rigidez de vigas estruturais de madeira laminada colada unidas por adesivo poliuretano
Authors: Cunha Alexsandro Bayestorff da , Matos Jorge Luis Monteiro de
Published: September 2014

Conduziu-se este estudo, com o objetivo de avaliar tecnicamente a produção de vigas de Madeira Laminada Colada unidas por meio de adesivo poliuretano, pela determinação do módulo de elasticidade estático e dinâmico. Para a confecção das vigas estruturais, foram utilizadas peças de madeira serrada de Pinus taeda e adesivo Poliuretano. Todas as peças que fizeram parte das vigas foram classificadas visualmente pelo número de anéis de crescimento e porcentagem de lenho tardio, além da presença de defeitos. Seguidamente, as lamelas foram classificadas pelo módulo de elasticidade dinâmico. As vigas foram montadas e prensadas, tendo o valor do módulo dinâmico estimado e o estático calculado com base no ensaio em uma máquina universal. A análise dos dados foi realizada pela análise da regressão. Concluiu-se que a classificação visual utilizada na seleção de peças foi insuficiente para se atingir os valores máximos de rigidez das vigas; as variações dos valores de módulo de elasticidade dinâmico das lamelas foram afetadas pela amplitude dos valores de densidade e de velocidade de propagação da onda; o posicionamento correto das lamelas, por meio de métodos dinâmicos de classificação, teve como consequência o aumento do módulo de elasticidade e houve uma correlação muito baixa entre o método dinâmico e estático das vigas, não sendo possível a elaboração de equação adequada de correlação entre as diferentes formas de obtenção da variável.
Amblyomma auricularium (Acari: Ixodidae): underwater survival of the non-parasitic phase of feeding females
Authors: Sá-Hungaro Iwine Joyce Barbosa de , Raia Vanessa de Almeida , Pinheiro Michele da Costa , Ribeiro Carla Carolina Dias Uzedo , Famadas Kátia Maria
Published: September 2014

To determine the effects of immersion in water on the biological parameters of engorged females of the tick species Amblyomma auricularium, 60 females were distributed in six groups, each comprising 10 individuals. The control group – G1 (not immersed) was fixed dorsally in a Petri dish and incubated at 27 ± 1°C and 80% RH. The other groups were subjected to immersion periods of 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours, and the sixth group to continuous immersion. After the immersion period, the females were placed in Petri dishes to begin laying. Eggs were collected every 72 hours and kept in biological chambers. All the groups showed significant differences (p <0.05) during the pre-oviposition period. The laying period and the average weight of overall posture did not change. The egg incubation period also did not differ significantly, but the hatching rate in the group immersed for 96h showed a significant difference. Thus, immersion for up to 96 hours does not impair the survival of A. auricularium females, although it may delay egg laying and reduce the number of offspring.
Autochthonous infection of buffaloes and cattle by Fasciola hepatica in Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Dracz Ruth Massote , Lima Walter dos Santos
Published: September 2014

Fasciola hepatica is a digenetic trematode that parasitizes the bile ducts of different species of vertebrate hosts. In Brazil, this parasitosis is expanding and occurrences have been reported in the southern, southeastern, central-western and northeastern regions. This study aimed to report the first case of naturally infection of buffaloes by this parasite in the state of Minas Gerais. A total of 250 stool samples, 176 from cattle and 74 from buffaloes, from the districts of São José da Lapa and Pedro Leopoldo, were examined. Also, 402 snails of the genus Lymnaea were collected on the same farms and the viability of the eggs from naturally infected buffaloes and cattle and the susceptibility of the snails to infection were tested. A total of 54 animals were found to be positive, 33 cattle (18.75%) and 21 buffaloes (28.37%), and two molluscs showed immature forms of F. hepatica. In experimental infection of specimens of Lymnaea, cercariae were obtained through spontaneous elimination from the 57th day post-infection onwards. The importance of this first case report can be emphasized because it confirms that this parasite is being dispersed in municipalities in this state that had previously been considered to be unaffected.
Metabolic alterations in broiler chickens experimentally infected with sporulated oocysts of Eimeria maxima
Authors: Freitas Fagner Luiz da Costa
Published: September 2014

Metabolic and morphometric alterations of the duodenal villi caused by parasitism of chickens by Eimeria maxima were evaluated, using 100 male Cobb birds, randomly distributed into two groups (control and infected). The infected group was inoculated with 0.5 ml of a solution containing 5×103 sporulated oocysts of Eimeria maxima. Ten birds per sample were sacrificed on the 6th, 11th, 22nd and 41st days post-infection (dpi). In order to evaluate the alterations, samples of duodenum, jejunum and ileum fragments were collected after necropsy for histological analysis. Villus biometry was determined by means of a slide graduated in microns that was attached to a binocular microscope. To evaluate the biochemical data, 5 ml of blood were sampled from the birds before sacrifice. The statistical analyses were performed using the GraphPad 5 statistical software for Windows. Tukey's multiple comparison test (p <0.05) was performed for the different dpi's and the unpaired t test for the difference between the groups. Infection by E. maxima causes both qualitative and quantitative alterations to the structure of the intestinal villi, thereby interfering with the absorption of nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, protein and lipids, with consequent reductions in the birds' weights.
Parasite Community of Cichla kelberi (Perciformes, Cichlidae) in the Três Marias Reservoir, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Santos-Clapp Michelle Daniele , Brasil-Sato Marilia Carvalho
Published: September 2014

A total of 112 specimens of yellow peacock bass, Cichla kelberi, were collected in the Três Marias Reservoir, upper São Francisco River, State of Minas Gerais, between 2004 and 2005. Twelve species of parasites were collected: two species of ectoparasites (the monogenetic Gussevia sp. and the copepod Ergasilus sp.); and ten species of endoparasites, including four species of adult endoparasites: the cestodes Proteocephalus macrophallus and P. microscopicus, and the nematodes: Capillostrongyloides sentinosa and Rhabdochona acuminata, and six species of larval endoparasites: the metacercariae of Austrodiplostomum compactum and the nematodes: Hysterothylacium sp., Contracaecum sp. Type 1, Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus, Spiroxys sp., and Goezia sp.. A significant positive correlation in the abundance of the two adult endoparasites species, P. macrophallus and P. microscopicus, may indicate that such associated species had the same ecological requirements. The positive correlations between the prevalence of the larval endoparasites, Hysterothylacium sp. and A. compactum, may indicate that there was opportunism for the two generalists species. Ergasilus sp., C. sentinosa, R. acuminata and Hysterothylacium sp. were recorded for the first time in C. kelberi, and this increased their list of known hosts. In addition, both proteocephalid species and C. sentinosa can extend their known biogeographical distribution to the Três Marias Reservoir.
Determination of IgG avidity in BALB/c mice experimentally infected with Toxocara canis
Authors: Schoenardie Elizandra Roselaine , Scaini Carlos James , Avila Luciana Farias da Costa de , Sperotto Rita Leal , Borsuk Sibele , Felicetti Cristine Dias Pires , Pepe Michele , Berne Maria Elisabeth Aires
Published: September 2014

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic disease in that IgM titers can remain high for long periods making difficult to determine the stage of the disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the applicability of indirect ELISA, associated with urea, to discriminate between the acute and chronic toxocariasis. IgG avidity was evaluated in 25 BALB/c mice experimentally infected with 1000 Toxocara canis eggs. Blood samples were collected, and sera treated with 6 M urea and assayed by ELISA every two weeks. The percent IgG avidity was determined using the mean absorbance of sera treated with urea, divided by the mean absorbance of untreated sera. In the first 15 days post-inoculation, was observed a low percentage, between 7.25 and 27.5%, IgG avidity, characteristic of an acute infection. After 60 days of infection, all the mice showed between 31.4 and 58% IgG avidity, indicating a chronic infection.
Comparative morphology of the species of Libyostrongylus and Codiostomum, parasites from ostriches, Struthio camelus, with a identification key to the species
Authors: Ederli Nicole Brand , Oliveira Francisco Carlos Rodrigues de
Published: September 2014

One of the most common problems in breeding of ostriches in captivity is the control of parasitic diseases. This work presents keys for the identification of adult nematodes and infective larvae by morphologic and morphometric characteristics. These keys will allow the scientific community to identify the species that infect the ostriches either based on the characteristics of the posterior end of the infective larvae found through a simple fecal exam or by observing the morphology and morphometry of adult worms recovered during necropsies. These keys will facilitate ecological and systematic studies, as well as increase the understanding of the epidemiology of these parasitosis in ostriches.
Seroprevalence and risk factors for Neospora caninum in goats in Santa Catarina state, Brazil
Authors: Topazio Josué Pires , Weber Augusto , Camillo Giovana , Vogel Fernanda Flores , Machado Gustavo , Ribeiro André , Moura Anderson Barbosa , Lopes Leandro Sâmia , Tonin Alexandre Alberto , Soldá Natan Marcos , Bräunig Patrícia , Silva Aleksandro Schafer da
Published: September 2014

Neosporosis is an infectious disease caused by the parasite Neospora caninum. Knowledge regarding neosporosis in goats is still quite limited, especially in the state of Santa Catarina (SC), southern Brazil. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the seroprevalence and risk factors for N. caninum in goats in the western and mountain regions of SC. Blood samples were collected from 654 goats in 57 municipalities. The indirect immunofluorescence test was used for antibody detection against N. caninum. Thirty samples (4.58%) were seropositive, with titers ranging from 1:50 to 1:6400. An epidemiological survey was also conducted in order to identify risk factors for neosporosis in goats. It was found that reproductive problems on the farms, as well as the diet and direct contact with dogs were casual risks for neosporosis. These results indicate that N. caninum infects goats in these regions, which may lead to reproductive problems.
Bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis complex: diagnosis and evaluation of the risk factors from Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Amorim Lucimar Souza , Wenceslau Amauri Arias , Carvalho Fábio Santos , Carneiro Paulo Luíz Souza , Albuquerque George Rêgo
Published: September 2014

Direct diagnoses were made by using - blood smears and nested PCR (nPCR) tests on 309 blood samples from crossbred dairy cattle in the municipality of Ibicaraí, Bahia. From diagnostic blood smear slides, the observed parasitic frequencies were 31.1% for Anaplasma marginale and 20.4% for Babesia sp. From nPCR diagnoses, they were 63% for A. marginale, 34% for Babesia bigemina and 20.4% for Babesia bovis. There were significant differences (P <0.01) between the two diagnostic methods (nPCR and blood smear slides). The compliance obtained from the kappa test was 0.41 and 0.48 for A. marginale and Babesia sp., respectively. The tick samples from the six farms analyzed using nPCR were only positive for A. marginale. Evaluation of the risk factors relating to the presence of ticks and the age of the animals showed that there was a significant association (P <0.01) with the frequency of animals infected with both pathogens. Therefore, under the conditions studied, nPCR proved to be a good tool for diagnosing the agents of the bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis complex because of its sensitivity and specificity in comparison with blood smears. The municipality of Ibicaraí is an area with endemic prevalence of bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis confirmed by nPCR and A. marginale is the main agent of the disease.
First record of intestinal parasites in a wild population of jaguar in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Srbek-Araujo Ana Carolina , Santos Juliana Lúcia Costa , Almeida Viviane Medeiros de , Guimarães Marcos Pezzi , Chiarello Adriano Garcia
Published: September 2014

Small and isolated wildlife populations may be more susceptible to disease, which makes illness an important issue to investigate regarding the conservation of large carnivores. Here, we present the results of the first investigation of intestinal parasites in one of the last remaining populations of jaguars in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. We studied parasites from fecal samples using three different techniques for parasitological examination: floatation in saturated sodium chloride solution, sedimentation and formalin-ether centrifugation. Intestinal parasites were detected in 70% of the analyzed samples, and seven taxa (mean = 3.7 taxa/sample) were identified. All the groups of parasites that were identified have been recorded in previous jaguar studies. However, the records of Class Trematoda and nematodes Trichuridae are the first evidence of these groups of worms in free-ranging jaguars in Brazil. Although our results do not provide conclusive evidence on the health of this jaguar population, given its very small size (approximately 20 animals) we stress the need to properly understand the dynamics of disease in this wild population and to evaluate the risk of contracting new diseases from domestic species inhabiting the neighboring areas. These represent imperative actions for the successful conservation of this threatened population of jaguar.
Trichobius longipes (Diptera, Streblidae) as a parasite of Phyllostomus hastatus(Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae)
Authors: Esbérard Carlos Eduardo Lustosa , Biavatti Theany Cecilia , Carvalho William Douglas , Costa Luciana de Moraes , Godoy Maira de Sant'Ana , Gomes Luiz Antonio Costa , Luz Júlia Lins , Pol André , Silva Edicarlos Pralon , Tato Gustavo Klotz , Graciolli Gustavo
Published: September 2014

Among the factors that influence the diversity of ectoparasites on bat hosts are the kind of roost and the host's social behavior. Other factors such as sex, reproductive condition and host size may influence the distribution and abundance of ectoparasites. The aim of the present study was to analyze the variation in Streblidae ectoparasites on the bat Phyllostomus hastatus, according to sex and roost type. We caught bats in four houses on Marambaia Island, municipality of Mangaratiba, and in one house at the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, municipality of Seropédica. We caught 65 females and 50 males of P. hastatus and 664 streblids of four species: Aspidoptera phyllostomatis, Strebla consocia, Trichobius“dugesii” complex and Trichobius longipes. The species T. longipes accounted for more than 99% of all the ectoparasites caught. Female bats were more parasitized than males, in terms of both prevalence and average intensity. The total number of parasites did not vary between resident and non-resident bats. The relationship between the number of individuals of T. longipes and sex and roost type was significant for resident bats. The total number of parasites on males did not differ between bachelor roosts and mixed-sex roosts. The differences found between roosts reflected the differences between the sexes.
Helminth fauna parasitizing Pimelodus pohli (Actinopterygii: Pimelodidae) from the upper São Francisco River, Brazil
Authors: Sabas Claudia Silveira São , Brasil-Sato Marilia Carvalho
Published: September 2014

The parasite fauna of catfish, Pimelodus pohli, from the São Francisco River Basin is presented. A total of 45 catfish from the upper São Francisco River (45°15′44″W 18°13′25″S), were examined from July 2009 to September 2011. Forty-three catfish (95.5%) were infected by at least one parasite species, with 885 parasite specimens being found, distributed across 17 species: Monogenea (Demidospermus uncusvalidus, Pavanelliella pavanellii, and Scleroductus sp.); Eucestoda (plerocercoids of Proteocephalidea); Digenea (metacercariae of Austrodiplostomum compactum, adults of Auriculostoma platense and Kalipharynx sp., and juvenile of Prosthenhystera obesa); Nematoda (larvae of Contracaecum sp., Hysterothylacium sp., Procamallanus pimelodus, Procamallanus sp., and unidentified of Cucullanidae, and adults of Cucullanus caballeroi, Philometra sp., and Procamallanus freitasi); and Acanthocephala (adults of Neoechinorhynchus pimelodi). Procamallanus freitasi and Scleroductus sp. were the taxa with the highest prevalence. Demidospermus uncusvalidus, P. freitasi, and Scleroductus sp. were the dominant species. The host's sex did not influence parasitic indexes; however, the total length of the catfish did appear to have some influence. The parasites, with except for P. obesa, were registered for the first time in P. pohli, as well as the occurrence of Kalipharynx sp. and C. caballeroi among pimelodid hosts from São Francisco River and South America.
Study on coinfecting vector-borne pathogens in dogs and ticks in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Authors: Gonçalves Luiz Ricardo , Filgueira Kilder Dantas , Ahid Silvia Maria Mendes , Pereira Josivânia Soares , Vale André Mendes do , Machado Rosangela Zacarias , André Marcos Rogério
Published: September 2014

Since dogs presenting several vector borne diseases can show none or nonspecific clinical signs depending on the phase of infection, the assessment of the particular agents involved is mandatory. The present study aimed to investigate the presence of Babesia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Hepatozoon spp. and Leishmania spp. in blood samples and ticks, collected from two dogs from Rio Grande do Norte showing suggestive tick-borne disease by using molecular techniques. DNA of E. canis, H. canis and L. infantum were detected in blood samples and R. sanguineus ticks collected from dogs. Among all samples analyzed, two showed the presence of multiple infections with E. canis, H. canis and L. infantum chagasi. Here we highlighted the need for molecular differential diagnosis in dogs showing nonspecific clinical signs.
Giant Foxtail Seed Predation byHarpalus pensylvanicus(Coleoptera: Carabidae)
Authors: Ward Meredith J. , Ryan Matthew R. , Curran William S. , Law Jeffrey
Published: September 2014

The utility of biological control for weed management in agroecosystems will increase with a greater understanding of the relationships between common weed and granivore species. Giant foxtail is an introduced, summer annual grass weed that is common throughout the United States and problematic in numerous crops.Harpalus pensylvanicus(DeGeer) (Coleoptera: Carabidae) is a common, native, omnivorous carabid beetle with a range that overlaps giant foxtail. In 2004 and 2005,H. pensylvanicuswas captured from farm fields in Centre County, PA, and subjected to laboratory feeding trials to test the preference of giant foxtail and other species on predation byH. pensylvanicus. Weed species seed preference experiments that included “Choice” and “No Choice” treatments were conducted using giant foxtail, common lambsquarters, and velvetleaf. When given a choice amongst the three weed species,H. pensylvanicuspreferred giant foxtail and common lambsquarters seeds equally compared to velvetleaf seeds. When given the choice,H. pensylvanicuspreferred newly dispersed giant foxtail seeds over field-aged seeds. Phenology of giant foxtail seed shed relative toH. pensylvanicusactivity density was also quantified in field experiments in 2005 and 2006. Giant foxtail seed rain was determined by collecting shed seeds from August through October using pan traps. Activity density ofH. pensylvanicuswas monitored for 72-h periods using pitfall traps from June to October. Peak activity density ofH. pensylvanicusoccurred at the onset of giant foxtail seed shed in both years; however, giant foxtail seed shed peaked approximately 30 to 50 d afterH. pensylvanicusactivity density. Future research should focus on management practices that enhance and supportH. pensylvanicuspopulations later in the growing season to maximize suppression of giant foxtail and other weeds that shed palatable seeds later in the season.
Effect of Simulated Indaziflam Drift Rates on Various Plant Species
Authors: Jeffries Matthew D. , Mahoney Denis J. , Gannon Travis W.
Published: September 2014

Indaziflam is a PRE herbicide for control of annual grass and broadleaf weeds in numerous settings, including managed roadsides, railroads, and noncroplands. There is a need for new and improved PRE herbicides for herbaceous vegetation management along roadsides; however, off-target crop injury via spray drift is a concern because of the close proximity of roadside applications to the wide array of crops grown throughout the southeastern United States where indaziflam is used. Greenhouse research was conducted to evaluate the effect of PRE and POST simulated indaziflam spray drift rates on the growth of cotton, bell pepper, soybean, squash, tobacco, and tomato. Simulated indaziflam spray drift rates were 100, 20, 10, 5, or 2.5% of a 73 g ai ha−1 application rate, whereas other herbicide treatments included for comparative purposes were applied at 10% of a typical North Carolina roadside vegetation management application rate. These included sulfometuron (4 g ai ha−1), aminocyclopyrachlor + metsulfuron (11 + 3.5 g ai ha−1), clopyralid + triclopyr (21 + 63 g ai ha−1), or aminopyralid (12 g ai ha−1). In general, plant growth responses varied among herbicides and application timings. Across all evaluated parameters, indaziflam at the 10% simulated drift rate adversely effected plant growth similarly or less than all other herbicides when applied PRE (squash and tomato), POST (bell pepper and soybean), and PRE or POST (cotton and tobacco). No clear trends were observed regarding indaziflam application timing, as PRE squash and tomato, and POST bell pepper and soybean applications were safer than their respective alternative timing, and no significant differences were detected between timings on cotton or tobacco. Across application timings, plant susceptibility to indaziflam-simulated spray drift rates ranked cotton < tobacco < tomato < squash < pepper < soybean. Finally, it should be noted that the lowest simulated indaziflam drift rate (2.5%) caused greater than 20% root mass reduction on cotton (POST), bell pepper (PRE and POST), soybean (PRE and POST), squash (PRE), and tomato (POST). Although this research supports indaziflam use along roadsides, it still poses an off-target plant injury risk. Future research should evaluate techniques to minimize spray drift from roadside pesticide applications.
Vegetable Soybean Tolerance to Bentazon, Fomesafen, Imazamox, Linuron, and Sulfentrazone
Authors: Williams Martin M. , Nelson Randall L.
Published: September 2014

Poor weed control, resulting from limited herbicide availability and undeveloped integrated weed management systems, is a major hurdle to production of vegetable soybean in the United States. Vegetable soybean, the same species as grain-type soybean, has few registered herbicides because of unknown crop tolerance. Tolerance of as many as 128 vegetable soybean entries to a 2X registered rate of bentazon, fomesafen, imazamox, linuron, and sulfentrazone were quantified within 4 wk after treatment in field trials. Several grain-type soybean entries were included for comparison, including entries with known herbicide tolerance or sensitivity. Injury and seedling growth reduction to all vegetable entries was comparable to all grain-type entries for fomesafen, linuron, and sulfentrazone; and less than all grain-type entries for bentazon and imazamox. Responses of ten of the more widely used vegetable soybean entries were comparable to grain-type entries with known herbicide tolerance. Bentazon, fomesafen, imazamox, linuron, and sulfentrazone pose no greater risk of adverse crop response to vegetable soybean germplasm than the grain-type soybean to which they have been applied for years. Since initiation of this research, fomesafen, imazamox, and linuron are now registered for use on the crop in the United States. Development of integrated weed management systems for vegetable soybean would benefit from additional herbicide registrations.
Population and individual‐scale responses to patch size, isolation and quality in the hazel dormouse
Authors: Mortelliti Alessio , Sozio Giulia , Driscoll Don A. , Bani Luciano , Boitani Luigi , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: September 2014

Patch size, isolation and quality are key factors influencing species persistence in fragmented landscapes. However, we still lack a detailed understanding of how these variables exert their effects on populations inhabiting fragmented landscapes. At which ecological scale do they have an effect (e.g., individuals versus populations) and, on which demographic parameters?

Answering these questions will identify the mechanisms that underlie population turnover rather than solely predicting it based on proxies (e.g., presence/absence data).

We report the results of a large‐scale, three‐year study focused on the relative effects of patch size, isolation and quality on individuals and populations of an arboreal rodent, the hazel dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius). We examined 30 sites nested within three landscapes characterized by contrasting levels of habitat amount and habitat quality (food resources). We quantified the effects of patch size and quality on the response of individuals (survival and litter size) and populations (density and colonization/extinction dynamics). We identified demographic mechanisms which led to population turnover. Habitat quality positively affected survival (not litter size) and population density (measured through an index). We infer that the decline in survival due to patch quality reduced patch recolonization rather than increasing extinction, while extinction was mainly affected by patch size. Our findings suggest that the effect of patch quality on individual and population parameters was constrained by the physical structure of the surrounding landscapes. At the same time, our results highlight the importance of preserving habitat quality to help the persistence of entire systems of patches.
Innovative Solutions in PCP Technologies, Run Life Improvement with Experimental and Numerical Works
Authors: Ramdé S.. , Beauquin J.. , Bellett D.. , Duret-Thual C.. , Olivier G.. , Pierchon A..
Published: September 2014

The All Metal Progressing Cavity Pump (AMPCP) has been widely used in previous years, in particular in Thermal Enhanced Oil Recovery (TEOR) applications and also in cold aggressive conditions. These harsh environments require continuous improvement of the product Run Life. This is achievable if there is a strong link between Product Development Teams and Operations.

The AMPCP behavior during its real conditions of operation remains partially unknown as it cannot be fully instrumented and monitored. The influence of high temperature, high pressure, corrosive gas and mechanical loads on the failure, are therefore difficult to establish. In this paper, a methodology is proposed to solve this problem, based on coupled experimental and numerical analysis. The initial aim is to evaluate the pump behavior in its running conditions (pressure, rotation speed) and to consequently predict pump failure due to fatigue and/or corrosion effect.

In an attempt to continuously optimize the All Metal PCP technology, the experimental work has been done in partnership referring to fatigue and corrosive test on specific alloys in order to choose the best material for run life improvement in various running conditions. The numerical work is based on a strongly coupled Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) study. This analysis shows that the fluid influences consequently the stress level in the pump. It shows that the structure influences the fluid behavior too. This means that the classical static approaches generally focused on only the fluid or only on the structure are not suited for PCP. This new approach can be used to determine the optimal design.

Once the identified solutions have been implemented, a close Operation follow up through Field Track software will be used to validate this approach and its success, closing the loop of run life improvements.
Assessing Integrity of Gas-Lift Valves by Analyzing Annular Pressure-Transient Response
Authors: Rocha-Valadez T.. , Hasan A. R. , Mannan M. S. , Crabtree A.. , Kabir C. S.
Published: September 2014

By definition, gas-lift valves (GLVs) are designed to allow influx of the annular gas into the tubing and prevent any backflow, even when there is a pressure differential toward the annulus. However, elements such as erosion, corrosion, scale, fatigue, vibration, and temperature and pressure effects may cause the GLV to leak, thereby posing a serious safety issue. Because of the well integrity concern, suspected GLVs are often retrieved for inspection with a wireline from the side-pocket mandrel. Proactive testing is a way to minimize such costly intervention.

This paper details a methodology for determining a GLV's integrity that avoids retrieving the valve and relies on examining the annular transient-pressure response. Based on the models that have been developed, we propose a robust, nonintrusive test procedure that can save both time and expense. This proposed method has been partially validated with field data from three offshore wells.
Gas Lift Nodal Analysis Model – Economical Optimization Approach
Authors: Al Lawati Mustafa
Published: September 2014

Field X consists of 17 scattered clusters of more than hundred oil wells producing from different reservoirs. The produced fluids from these reservoirs vary considerably in PVT properties, but all are of relatively average GOR and light oil API.

Gaslift is the dominant lifting system in clusters A, B and C for field X. The clusters are very scattered and far from each other. Long surface pipelines to transport lifting gas are built across the field and a compressor is installed with a total throughput of 90 MMSCF/D at a discharge pressure of 1,280 psi.

As the field expands, two major factors are contributing into the reduction of the Gaslift network efficiency; the rapid expansion of the network which is a result of the dynamic drilling operations. This makes the lifting network extremely busy and full of low lifting gas rate ends. The second factor is the water aquifer which increases produced watercut% dramatically resulting in heavier fluid column gradient to be lifted which again causes lifting inefficiency.

The easy solution to overcome these challenges was to increase lifting gas utilization, but this was an expensive option. A more economical option was; based on proper engineering to restructure the gaslift surface pipelines by rerouting surface network in order to reduce network branching and accordingly enhancing lifting gas pressures and rates across the network while maintaining same lifting gas utilization. A numerical simulation model was built based on rigorous physics and nodal analysis to integrate between well production model and gaslift surface network model to enable the engineer to evaluate the impact of rerouting the network on individual wells production.

This paper will describe the following process which was adapted to build and solve the integrated model to obtain an economical optimization approach for any scattered clusters field: Clusters field model building phase:Characterize reservoirs PVT samples and match to equation of state EOS. Build material balance models. Build well models and entire surface production and gas lift injection networks.Integrate fluid models, reservoir models, well models and surface production and gas lift injection network.Clusters field model solving phase:Link the production model and gas lift injection model.Solve the gas lift injection network to identify the weak injection rate ends. Restructure Gaslift network by rerouting the pipelines. Solve again the network to obtain optimized lifting gas rates based on actual gas lift injection depths.Run network optimizer to enhance lifting gas injection depths based on available injection gas rates and pressure.Oil production gain of 15% was achieved from rerouting the gaslift network in three clusters wells in field X by enhancing lifting gas rates and avoiding unnecessary network branching.
Testing of Hydraulic Tubing Anchors
Authors: Phillips Walter
Published: September 2014

Hydraulic tubing anchors, similar to the traditional mechanical tubing anchor (TAC), have been around for over 30 years. Unlike the TAC, the hydraulic tubing anchor does not require surface manipulation to set. Differential pressure between the tubing and casing anulus engages the anchor to the casing by way of a hydraulic piston. Technology and materials have greatly improved in recent years resulting in a vast improvement in reliability of this particular tool. To better understand the dynamics of hydraulic anchors, a test rig was constructed to approximate down-hole conditions in terms of depth and holding capacity. The test assembly allows for controlling the perceived depth by way of pressurizing the tubing, or internal bore of the hydraulic anchor. Varying the pressure in the "tubing" simulates the pressures seen at any depth. The holding capacity of the anchor is tested by a hydraulic jack, which is placed under the anchor. The jack, having a known bore, can easily correlate PSI to lifting force placed on the anchor. Numerous tests were conducted at varying depths to find the lifting force required to dislodge, or cause the anchor to slip. Anchor test data as well as analysis of the interface between the anchor and casing are presented.
All Metal PCP Experiences in Orinoco Belt
Authors: Arredondo Manuel , Caballero David , Morety Robert , Delgado Algimar , Ortegano Bernardo
Published: September 2014

In 1997, the commercial development of the large Heavy & Extra Heavy Oil (HO & EHO) resources of the Orinoco Belt (7 to 12° API/Estimated 297 Bbbl of Recoverable Crude Oil) was initiated. Petropiar (a JV between Chevron & PDVSA), was one the first project in the area, and until today it is considered as a reference when it comes to developing the most recently allocated blocks in the area.

After more than 10 years of intensive production programs, some fields are showing signs of depletion and associated production of gas is increasing. In order to improve oil recovery factor, several operators in Orinoco Belt are interested in Thermal Enhanced Oil Recovery (TEOR) projects. In thermal projects, Artificial Lift Systems must be able to operate in cold and hot conditions, reducing workover intervention and associated production losses. PCM, who is involved in supplying Progressing Cavity Pumps technologies to the Orinoco belt since the very beginning, has developed the exclusive & patented PCM VULCAIN™ (All Metal PCP) technology in order to extend the use of PCP technology on these kind of projects; where no elastomer PCP can perform.

In 2011, a project was launched in collaboration with Petropiar optimization department in order to validate PCM Vulcain™ technology in cold and gassy conditions in this field. 2 × 80V1000 PCM VULCAIN™ pumps were installed in selected wells.

Following the demonstration of the PCM Vulcain™ ability to maintain a high hydraulic efficiency under variable conditions of temperature & viscosities (SPE97796) and the subsequent development of the PCM Vulcain™ in TEOR (WHOC11-578), this paper presents how the PCM Vulcain™ technology adapts to the specific Orinoco Belt environment, and what this technology could bring to further development of this heavy oil basin in EOR projects.
Reliability Improvement in Beam Pumps by use of a Unique Methodology Combining Real-Time Automation and Failure Analysis
Authors: Gardner Blair
Published: September 2014

Santos has produced oil from the Cooper Basin, central Australia since 1983. A range of artificial lift systems are used, dependent on fluid rate and reservoir depth with the beam pump the dominant artificial lift system. Historically the fleet experienced high subsurface failure frequency and increasing operating cost. Information regarding pump operating conditions and the root cause of failure was inconsistent in reporting standard and not readily available. As a consequence the details and mode of failure were not well understood. This paper will focus on analysis of beam pump failure root causes and trends, and how the operator has used this data combined with automated equipment to reduce failure frequency and operating cost.

Santos started a program of beam pump automation in 2006. Before 2009, Santos relied on review of individual well files to determine pump operating history and failure mode. No central collation of well history or pump failure information was available. A database was built, which compiled failure details for more than 2,000 pump installations. This database has enabled run life, failure mode and frequency to be tracked and analysed. A program of automation and control upgrades to 85% of the beam pump population has provided greater visibility of operating conditions and parameters by means of telemetry to the office. This information in conjunction with the database is now used to better understand reasons for failure, and to design future downhole configurations as a result.

In 2006, all Santos beam pumps were non-automated and had a failure frequency of 0.4 failures per well per year. Since the implementation of the automated fleet and the database, data shows frequency has reduced by 70% for automated wells. In comparison, the remaining non-automated beam pumps continue to have a failure frequency of 0.3 to 0.4. Since 2006 the beam pump well count has increased by 60% while the number of annual pump repairs has reduced by 30%. The data indicates failure modes are different on wells with automation. As an example, automated wells have a lower frequency of parted rods, resulting from better rod string design and control.

This paper will assist operators to benchmark beam pump run life in similar operating conditions such as the Cooper Basin. It also presents data and findings to support the benefit a beam pump automation and control program may provide. Detailed understandings of failure modes have helped Santos and its joint venture partners gain significant economic benefit, and develop "Best Practice" guidelines for beam pump system design as a consequence.
Viscoelastic Creep of Eagle Ford Shale: Investigating Fluid-Shale Interaction
Authors: Almasoodi Mouin M. , Abousleiman Younane N. , Hoang Son K.
Published: September 2014

Although organic-rich shale formations are being extensively produced in many places in the United States, the unexpected early production decline is still not fully understood. This phenomenon could have many physical or operational reasons. One of the physical attributes is the time-dependent characteristics of the shale mineral assemblage when interacting with the fracturing fluid. Creep deformation is one of those time-dependent characteristics through which rocks exhibit continuous deformation under constant load that affects reservoir completion and hydraulic fracture stimulation. In this study, shale creep deformation was characterized and rheological models were developed. Triaxial creep experiments were conducted on rock samples from the Eagle Ford shale from southern Texas. Samples were tested with water, decane, or without any circulating fluid to assess fluid-shale interaction. Eagle Ford shale mineral compositions were also investigated using X-Ray Diffraction analyses in an attempt to correlate minerals fluid sensitivity. Problems such as loss of fracture width and length due to shale viscoelastic behavior while embedding the proppant can be better understood if the magnitude of shale creep is well characterized. The experimentally calibrated viscoelastic model not only addressed the instantaneous, transient, and long term sample deformations, but also enabled the estimation of proppant embedment depth during production. The creep deformation was most pronounced when the shale was impregnated with water. Decane-impregnated samples produced less creep deformation and the least creep was measured on the dry ones. The theory of linear viscoelasticity was used to model the samples time-dependent deformation when subjected to their respective constant loads.