bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acquiring Emptiness: Interpreting Nāgārjuna’s MMK 24:18
Authors: Berger Douglas L.
Published: January 2010

A pivotal focus of exegesis of Nāgārjuna’s Mūlamadhyamakakārikā (MMK) for the past half century has been the attempt to decipher the text’s philosophy of language, and determine how this best aids us in characterizing Madhyamaka thought as a whole. In this vein, MMK 24:18 has been judged of particular weight insofar as it purportedly insists that the concepts pratītyasamutpāda (conditioned co-arising) and śūnyatā (emptiness), both indispensable to Buddhist praxis, are themselves only “nominal” or “conventional,” that is, they are merely labels that do not referentially signify anything that can be taken to be an ontologically ultimate reality. In various guises, as a result of this explication, Nāgārjuna’s thought has been seen to embrace an overarching linguistic nominalism or conventionalism in which words, whether they are used for the purposes of theory or practice, though they serve as commonly accepted currency in the transactions of worldly business (vyavahāra), are in the end only ideas (prajñapti) or metaphysical fabrications (prapaṅca). This interpretation is largely due to tenaciously inaccurate translations and expositions of MMK 24:18 and their dependence on Candrakīrti’s peculiar analysis of this verse in his Prasannapadā. This essay will attempt to correct both the diction of the major translations of MMK 24:18 and the fictions of nominalism and conventionalism that the consequent interpretations of this stanza have perpetuated. The argument that will be developed in the course of this essay is that Candrakīrti’s reading of this verse proffers a strong form of linguistic nominalism that Nāgārjuna himself does not embrace. It will be shown, based on everything else found in the MMK, that Nāgārjuna, rather than advocating the mere nominal or conventional status of terms such as pratītyasamutpāda and śūnyatā, demands they be accepted as both pedagogically useful and even referentially accurate descriptions of the world as it is.
Confucius and Mencius on the Motivation to Be Moral
Authors: Huang Yong
Published: January 2010

Focusing on the Analects and the Mencius, this article attempts to provide a Confucian answer to “why be moral?”—a question about the motivation to be moral that is neither tautological nor self-contradictory, as some philosophers claim. The Confucian answer to this question is that to be moral is joyful. While one may find joy in doing non-moral and even immoral things, one ought to seek joy in being moral or at least in being not immoral, as being moral is uniquely human. As the Confucian motivation for being moral is joy and therefore appears to be egoistic, Confucian joy lies in practicing the four cardinal virtues and so is altruistic.
Self-Cultivation as a Microphysics of Reverence: Toward a Foucauldian Understanding of Korean Culture
Authors: Oh Minjoo , Arditi Jorge
Published: January 2010

This essay discusses Korean Neo-Confucian conceptions of the self and the important practice of self-cultivation in Neo-Confucian culture. Although approaching the question and practice from different perspectives, these conceptions reflect a foundation in reverence for knowledge, righteousness, propriety, and benevolence. Basic comparisons are then drawn between Neo-Confucian and Western conceptions of the self and self-cultivation. In particular, Michel Foucault’s work on self-cultivation as embedded in social discourses or practices suggests that Neo-Confucian self-cultivation also can be described through a microphysics of reverence. Two examples from modern Korean culture are considered in order to demonstrate how a microphysics of reverence reveals replication and reinforcement of existing social practices in the guise of self-cultivation.
Ruin and renewal in Idrissa Oudraogo's Yaaba
Authors: Chirol Marie-Magdeleine , Stefanson Blandine
Published: February 2010

Beneath the seemingly simple story of Yaaba (1989) by Idrissa Oudraogo (Burkina Faso), Marie-Magdeleine Chirol uncovers various layers of meaning and dwells on the metaphorical and symbolical nuances of the film. Her analysis first emphasizes the echoing structural pattern present
in the film narrative. Next, it focuses on the cycles of appearances and disappearances that eventually lead to a dialectics of ruin and renewal. In her conclusion, Chirol expands on the motif of ruins as part of a larger perspective on the pervading theme of childhood in films by other directors
from Burkina Faso, such as Gaston Kabor, Pierre Yamogo and Dani Kouyat. Indeed, the symbiosis between the young and the elderly, as well as the search for identity, fits within the scope of renewal.
At the entrance gate: students and biographical trajectories in the University of Lisbon
Authors: Almeida Ana Nunes de , Vieira Maria Manuel
Published: February 2010

University failure is the starting point of this article, which is based on a case study at the University of Lisbon. The objective is to discuss concepts constructing school failure as a problem in higher education systems, with special attention being given to contemporary debates
on youth condition in strongly individualised societies. The study selects first-year students in the University of Lisbon's eight faculties in 20032004, to establish a social characterisation of this group by applying an extensive survey to first-year students. A database was constructed
and statistical treatment of the information undertaken. This article relates these findings to school failure indicators at the university and its various faculties. As a result, we expect to sketch a social portrait of new University of Lisbon students in 20032004 considered as a whole and
in their internal diversity, and to illustrate links between their social trajectories and secondary school failure and success indicators.
Support Groups for Suicide Survivors: Results of a Survey of Group Leaders
Authors: Cerel Julie , Padgett Jason H. , Reed Gerald A.
Published: February 2010

To update and expand Rubey and McIntosh's (1996) survivors of suicide support groups report, SPAN USA completed a survey of U.S. support group leaders (n = 100; 24% completion). There are now more survivor groups (from 280 to 417), and the majority of groups now have a survivor leader (78% vs. 25%). Groups continue to be small (88% < 10 members per session) and meet on a monthly basis (55%). Sharing continues to be a universal experience in groups, which tend to be open‐ended (85%). Current groups are newer, and more operate without a sponsor. Further research is needed to examine group member perspectives and effectiveness of groups.
Poverty and Chronic Illness in Early Childhood: A Comparison Between the United Kingdom and Quebec
Authors: Nikiéma Béatrice , Spencer Nick , Séguin Louise
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVES:

Our goal was to examine the association between poverty, in the first and fourth years of life and cumulatively in the first and fourth years of life, and the health of children in the fourth year of life in the UK Millennium Cohort Study and in the Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development (QLSCD).

METHODS:

Data from the UK Millennium Cohort Study of 14 556 children and from the QLSCD of 1950 children were analyzed. Comparable measures of poverty were households in receipt of the safety-net benefit: income support in the United Kingdom and social welfare in Quebec. Three parent-reported health indicators were examined: asthma attack, long-standing illness, and limiting long-standing illness by the fourth year of life. Associations were explored with logistic regression modeling controlling for child characteristics and maternal education.

RESULTS:

Poverty only in the first year of life significantly increased the risk of asthma attacks and limiting long-standing illness in the fourth year of life among UK children; trends were in the expected direction in the QLSCD but did not reach statistical significance. Poverty in the fourth year of life only significantly increased the risk of all 3 outcomes for UK children but not for Quebec children. For children experiencing poverty in both the first and fourth years of life, the risks for all 3 outcomes also increased in the United Kingdom, whereas only the risk of limiting long-standing illness increased in Quebec. Adjustment for confounding had little effect on the increased risks associated with poverty.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings suggest that experience of poverty at various times in early childhood increases the risk of asthma attacks and chronic illness in the fourth year of life; however, they also indicate that poverty at different stages of the early childhood life course may have different effects on chronic illness in different country settings.
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Authors: Gil-Monte Pedro R , Carlotto Mary Sandra , Câmara Sheila Gonçalves
Published: February 2010

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a validade fatorial e de construto da versão brasileira do "Cuestionario para la Evaluación del Síndrome de Quemarse por el Trabajo" (CESQT). MÉTODOS: O processo de versão do questionário original do espanhol para o português incluiu as etapas de tradução, retrotradução e equivalência semântica. Foi realizada análise fatorial confirmatória e utilizados modelos de equações estruturais de quatro fatores, similar ao da estrutura original do CESQT. A amostra foi constituida de 714 professores que trabalhavam em instituições de ensino da cidade de Porto Alegre, RS, e região metropolitana 2008. O questionário possui 20 itens distribuídos em quatro subescalas: Ilusão pelo trabalho (5 itens), Desgaste psíquico (4 itens), Indolência (6 itens) e Culpa (5 itens). O modelo foi analisado com base no programa LISREL 8. RESULTADOS: As medidas de ajuste indicaram adequação do modelo hipotetizado: χ2(164) = 605,86 (p < 0,000), Goodness Fit Index = 0,92, Adjusted Goodness Fit Index = 0,90, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0,062, Non-Normed Fit Index = 0,91, Comparative Fit Index = 0,92, Parsimony Normed Fit Index = 0,77. O valor de alfa de Cronbach para todas as subescalas foi maior que 0,70. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados indicam que o CESQT possui validade fatorial e consistência interna adequada para avaliar burnout em professores brasileiros.
Clay-Free Synthetic-Based Fluid Provides High-Angle Wellbore Stability with Minimal Dilution and Treatment Requirements
Authors: Ackal Kalil , Gillikin Andrew
Published: February 2010

A seven-well development program in the Gulf of Mexico presented several drilling and logistical challenges to the Arena Offshore LLC engineering staff. The high-angle (54°-73°) 9-7/8" production intervals had shallow kick-off points (in one instance 70° by 3000 ft TVD, 30° average azimuth change, high of 67°). The complex wellpaths had proven difficult to drill with water-based fluids (WBF). Wellbore stability and torque and drag issues added to non-productive time (NPT). Previous wells drilled with WBF experienced slow penetration rates, multiple wiper trips, and one lost directional bottomhole assembly (BHA). The decision was made to use a synthetic-based fluid (SBF) on the seven-well project, but deck space and pit capacity constraints meant that the selected SBF would have to perform well with minimal dilution and product additions.

To help improve tolerance for increased low gravity solids content (>6%), the operator displaced the well with a clay-free SBF after setting surface casing at ± 3000 ft TVD. The system contained zero organophilic clay or lignite additives, so that the solids content was inherently lower than that of conventional SBFs. In addition, the fluid required one-third fewer products than conventional SBFs, resulting in fewer crane lifts and a smaller footprint on offshore rigs.

The system can be characterized as "emulsion-based". The emulsion chemistry can provide the yield point values and gel strengths required for good suspension and sag prevention, while exhibiting shear-thinning behavior for rapid gel-to-flow transitions when needed.

The clay-free SBF can run with a low synthetic oil-to-water ratio (SWR) in the range of 70/30 to 75/25 SWR as compared to the 80/20 SWR typically needed for conventional SBFs. On the Arena project, the system performed reliably despite an average 8.1% low gravity solids (LGS) content. Gels remained low and flat, even when the LGS content reached 15% on one well. The lower SWR values and reduced base oil dilution requirements helped keep fluid maintenance costs low.

The use of the clay-free SBF allowed the operator to drill the wells considerably faster, at times drilling over 2,000 ft. per day despite the high percentage of LGS. No wellbore instability issues occurred, trips went smoothly and casing was run to bottom on every well. Four of the seven original wells reached total depth at 21% below AFE cost, and several sidetracks were drilled for geologic reasons using the same clay-free system.
Opportunities and Challenges of Deepwater Subsalt Drilling
Authors: Mathur Rohit , Seiler Nancy , Srinivasan Ananth , Pardo Nesny O.
Published: February 2010

Drilling wells to depths >25,000 ft will continue to present geologic and economic challenges for deepwater operators. These capital-intensive projects require acute attention to maximizing drilling efficiency and mitigating risk.

Using several case studies, this paper describes recent deepwater subsalt exploration activity and discusses the challenges of drilling through the salt. Through close collaboration between the operator and drilling service provider, efforts to push rig and tool limitations successfully resulted in an increase in drilling efficiency. Additionally, extensive job planning, close monitoring of drilling parameters and continual testing against modeled data during execution were shown to address uncertainties seen below the base of salt.

This paper takes lessons from multiple wells and presents an approach to: Improve drilling penetration rates in salt by means of vibration mitigationAchieve early detection of base of saltModel and integrate design (BHA) components for optimum drilling performanceValidate structural dip and improve upon the geologic seismic model using real-time LWD imaging.
Are You on the Right Track with Casing Milling? Innovative Precision-Milled Windows Offer Improved Casing Exit Reliability for Sidetracking and Multilateral Completions
Authors: Ponton Calvin , Roberts Justin , Fipke Steven , Cuthbert Andy
Published: February 2010

Multilateral wells offer many benefits over conventional wells, including reduced overall drilling costs, lower environmental effect, increased total recovery, greater access to production intervals, and subsequently improved well production rates. However, it can be difficult to achieve a good quality casing window through which an additional lateral branch can be successfully drilled and completed. As bottomhole assemblies (BHAs) become more advanced, involving longer and stiffer strings of tools, and as completion design becomes more intricate, more attention must be given to the way the casing window is created because this is the foundation of multilateral well design. Track-guided milling systems have emerged as effective and accurate methods by which to control casing window geometry, and this paper will focus on recent advances in track-guided, precision window milling technology and its effect on multilateral well design.

To avoid potential problems in running drilling assemblies or liner/completion strings, advanced milling technology should be used to create the casing window. During conventional milling, it is commonly difficult to control the action of the mill as it cuts through the casing; poor control creates a casing window that could, as a result of right hand rotation during milling, rolling-off to one side, leading to a skewed or shortened aperture. Uncontrolled and undefined window geometry introduces additional risks when re-entering a lateral wellbore, such as nonproductive time (NPT) and equipment damage. A good quality casing window, with precisely controlled length and width, helps ensure that drilling and completion equipment can exit the aperture without problems and facilitates repeatable re-entry access to both the mainbore and the laterals in future interventions. The quality of the casing window is just as critical in multilateral wells as in conventional sidetracking or whipstock operations.

Advances in modern casing milling technology are pioneering improved multilateral well designs. Multilateral wellbore junctions can now be placed in deep, high-angle wells without compromising drilling or completion operations by using a track-guided milling system to create improved casing windows.
Using Surfactant Nanotechnology to Engineer Displacement Packages for Cementing Operations
Authors: Van Zanten Ryan , Lawrence Bridget , Henzler Stephen
Published: February 2010

Removing oil-based drilling fluid residue is crucial to developing an excellent cement bond between casing and formation. A good cement bond leads to proper zonal isolation, improved casing integrity, and reduces annular gas migration. The development of an effective displacement spacer to remove oil residue is paramount in creating an effective cement bond. Typically mixtures of several different components consisting of solvent and surfactant combinations have to be run for an effective displacement from oil-based fluid to cement. Microemulsions offer an attractive alternative to the use of solvent/surfactant combinations. Microemulsion forming surfactant solutions can solubilize large volumes of oil like a solvent while simultaneously water wetting the casing and formation.

Laboratory testing led to the development of a surfactant-based microemulsion forming cement spacer. The microemulsion spacer water wets more effectively than previously used solvent/surfactant spacers, eliminating the use of solvents in the cement spacer. The elimination of solvents can allow for a more environmentally friendly solution. Mixing this spacer with oil-based drilling fluid does not change the wettability of the bulk mud, allowing it to be re-mixed with the remaining fluid.

Several different field trials in the Rocky Mountain region have been run showing improved cement bond logs. Operational personnel identified that the surfactant package replaced the use of two existing surfactant packages, eliminating mixing errors and minimizing logistical issues. Initial lab tests were done with local field mud samples to compare wettability results. Improved wettability was achieved on different mud systems, diesel based and synthetic oil based. The operator approved the use of a new microemulsifier on several wells. After the operator had run bond logs, results were compared to wells with similar job designs and wellbore conditions. Improved bonds were shown in the wells where the new surfactant package was applied.
Drilling Automation: Novel Trajectory Control Algorithms for RSS
Authors: Matheus Justo , Naganathan Siva
Published: February 2010

Operators traditionally have been drilling in easy reservoirs that allow for large target TVD tolerances, in the order of few 10s of feet. However, with the maturity of reservoirs, the tolerances and accuracy required to draw out the residual oil has become quite narrow, to the order of one to two feet.

Traditionally, trajectory control in the drilling industry has been performed by experienced directional drillers, using drilling technologies such as motors. These technologies were dumb iron components, and were limited in their efficiency (ROP), which gave enough time for making control decisions.

The introduction of Rotary Steerable Systems (RSS) enabled faster and efficient well bore delivery. This tested the limits of human operators to assimilate the MWD data, compare the actual well trajectory with the planned and take corrective actions to get back to the desire well plan.

Rotary Steerable Systems are very sophisticated tools with downhole intelligence. This provides the framework to implement advanced and automatic downhole trajectory control algorithms, which have no lag times, and can perform consistent, accurate, and reliable corrective actions.

This paper discusses the development and testing of a next generation non-linear trajectory control algorithm, which can Hold Inclination and Azimuth downhole, run below mud motors and perform an automatic turn, while holding inclination with ability to control the gains while drilling ahead.

This paper also presents case studies of the runs from various locations worldwide, which used this novel algorithm to control inclination, azimuth, and keep TVD within tight tolerances. The paper ends with analyses, lessons learned and conclusions from the field trial runs.
Overcoming a Difficult Salt Drilling Environment in the Gulf of Mexico: A Case Study
Authors: Chatar Crispin , Mohan Sushil , Imler Mark D.
Published: February 2010

More than a decade ago few companies intentionally penetrated and successfully drilled the large salt sections in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM). Problems common to drilling in salt led to excessive nonproductive time (NPT): hole instability, stuck pipe, tools lost in hole, among others. Although techniques are now available that enable successful drilling of many of these large salt structures, there still are some formations with characteristics that make drilling challenging. This paper focuses on one such ultradeep subsalt prospect and the strategies used to overcome the key issues of nonhomogeneous salt formations, shock and vibration, and salt inclusions. Application of new and emerging technologies and techniques for drilling in similar environments focused on drilling parameter optimization, bottomhole assembly (BHA) tendencies, and stuck-pipe analysis. This paper presents comparisons of the results expected prior to optimization measures and the actual results.
Innovative Use of Plug-and-Abandonment Equipment for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency
Authors: Olstad Delaney , O’Connor Philip
Published: February 2010

Traditional rigless plug-and-abandonment (P&A) operations involve time-consuming methods that can potentially be detrimental to personnel, assets, and the environment. Rising costs, the heightened level of safety required in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) and beyond, and the unpredictability of the industry’s operational needs necessitate timely development of innovative technologies and applications of equipment and resources. This paper examines the combination of aggressive engineering and competent staffing to solve P&A problems in a safe and efficient manner.

The paper presents three distinct jobs and the techniques applied to successfully complete the objectives of each situation. In the first scenario, a production platform, rendered inoperable by a hurricane and left leaning, required permanent abandonment. Limitations on the structure’s loading capacity required use of a unique pipe pulling unit. The second situation, a badly damaged satellite production facility, necessitated development of a job-specific cantilever system, designed and deployed on a lift boat. In a third, land-based operation, a specialized jacking system was needed to repair and replace damaged surface casing. All three jobs originated from catastrophic incidents that required rapid mobilization.

The paper continues with a discussion of the capabilities of the multiple systems; the successful completion of each job with no recordable incidents or environmental impact; and the lessons learned during the development processes. Cost reductions are correlated to the techniques and methods previously mentioned. Finally, the paper demonstrates the adaptability of the P&A equipment, techniques, and resources that can be applied to other real-world applications.
20KSI BOP Stack Development
Authors: Whitby Melvyn F. , Kotrla John E.
Published: February 2010

After the introduction of the Cameron 18-3/4" 20,000 psi EVO Drilling BOP at OTC, 2009, this paper will focus on identifying and completing the GAP technologies necessary for design and testing of a Deepwater 20,000 psi subsea BOP stack.

This paper will identify design methodologies employed in design and testing of the BOP and outline GAP technologies that must be addressed for completing a Deepwater Subsea BOP stack.

Taking a bottom up approach, the discussion will focus on the Wellhead connector and necessary loads, the Drill Through column, Choke and Kill systems and packaging to allow for use on existing rigs with minimal upgrade intervention.
Well Completion Applications for the Latest-Generation Low-Viscosity Sensitive Passive Inflow Control Device
Authors: Peterson Elmer R. , Coronado Martin P. , Garcia Luis A. , Garcia Gonzalo A.
Published: February 2010

In long horizontal wells, oil production rate is typically affected by the reservoir heterogenities, heel to toe effect and mobility ratio. The resulting imbalanced production profile may cause early water or gas breakthrough into the wellbore. Once coning occurs, well fluid production may be severely decreased due to limited flow contribution from the toe or from reservoir areas with high flow resistance in the porous media. To eliminate this imbalance, passive inflow control devices (PICDs) are placed in each screen joint or inflow point to balance the production influx profile across the entire lateral length and compensate for permeability variation.

PICD performance in producer (oil, gas, and high gas/oil ratio environments) wells under different operational conditions will be presented to show the technical benefits of this technique as well as their improved recovery efficiencies when compared to non-PICD completions. Fluid viscosity insensitivity of the PICD is critical to minimize preferential water flow whenever water breaks through into the well. The quantification of the benefits of this completion technique was performed using a fully integrated reservoir simulator where the PICD flow performance characteristic (as a function of fluid properties and geometry), well completion description (packers, blank pipe, gravel pack, annulus flow, etc.) and reservoir simulation are considered. Shutting off whole sections that have unacceptably high water and/or gas production using the latest PICD feature is also modeled to show improved recovery performance.

This paper details the development of the latest-generation PICD design concept. Because these PICDs are permanent downhole components, their long-term reliability is imperative, and these new developments will improve their resistance to erosion and their ability to effectively balance inflow. Computational flow dynamics (CFD) analysis was used extensively to characterize the new design, under liquid and gas conditions, along with actual full-scale flow testing.
New Cutter Technology Redefining PDC Durability Standards for Directional Control: North Texas/Barnett Shale
Authors: Baker Ryan , Shen Yuelin , Zhang John , Scott Robertson
Published: February 2010

The Bamett Shale play in the Fort Worth basin has become a substantial source of natural gas development and production in the United States. However, successfully drilling to the producing horizontal section requires an ever increasing amount of directional control. It's critical to optimize borehole placement and maximize total lateral footage within the producing horizon to enhance project economics. Additionally, in the vertical/build and hold section the operator must drill the sharp, abrasive Atoka sandstone and Bend conglomerate. These formations usually require several bits/trips to complete the entire section. These formations have historically been drilled with roller cone bits because standard polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits/cutters do not have the required wear and impact resistance to withstand the punishment of the downhole environment without sustaining dramatic penetration rate (ROP) reductions. The operator required new cutter technology to efficiently drill the hardest, most abrasive sections of the Pennsylvanian Atoka sandstone and Bend conglomerate (~80% sandstone). The PDC bit body also needs to provide superior directional control to efficiently deliver the complex borehole geometries.

To solve these issues, the service provider initiated a research and development effort to analyze the levels of frictional heat generated at the rock/cutter interface. The resulting high temperature at the cutting tip is a major factor limiting PDC application in challenging hard/abrasive formations. Additionally, PDC's are now expected to drill longer intervals at deeper depths further intensifying thermal degradation and micro-chipping. The multifaceted analysis was aimed at increasing the three key functional properties that dictate PDC cutter life including thermal stability, wear resistance and impact strength. Generally, wear resistance and thermal stability are required for drilling sandstone, siltstone and other abrasive formations, while formations with higher rock strength and interbedded sections require a more impact resistant cutter.
Understanding the Contribution of Primary Stability to Build Aggressive and Efficient PDC Bits
Authors: Fuselier Danielle M. , Vempati Chaitanya R. , Oldham Jack , Patel Suresh G
Published: February 2010

A rigorous engineering and research effort combined with targeted field testing has delivered a new generation of PDC technology. This technology is intended to be utilized to drill both the hard-to-drill rock applications and the fast drilling top hole applications around the world.

In the fast drilling environment, the bit passes from the softer formation to harder interbedded stringers. In the hard-to- drill rock environments, the bit is drilling at low depths of cut (DOC). In both of these environments, it is critical to the overall performance in both rate of penetration (ROP) and distance drilled that the drill bits exhibit stability that is dependent on how the cutting structure interacts with the formation (primary stability) and keeps the bit from being perturbed when drilling.

This paper investigates how increasing primary stability can improve both the aggressiveness and efficiency of the bit and gain performance that cannot be achieved with bits that use damage mitigating features as part of the design methodology to stabilize or otherwise protect the cutting structures in these drilling environments. This paper also outlines a comprehensive product development effort with testing both in a laboratory setting as well as in the field. Using aggressive cutting structures to drill these two environments can increase performance if the bit has a strong primary stability signature as demonstrated by the test protocols used in this development effort. During laboratory testing, the new generation of PDC technology achieved on average 45% faster ROP compared to standard bits while increasing stability and efficiency. This improvement correlated to the field as the new concept bits drilled intervals 30% longer and 25% faster compared with the average performance of runs drilled with PDC bits.
Successful Development and Field Qualification of a 95/8 in and 7 in Rotary Steerable Drilling Liner System that Enables Simultaneous Directional Drilling and Lining of the Wellbore
Authors: Torsvoll A. , Abdollahi J. , Eidem M. , Weltzin T. , Hjelle A. , Rasmussen S. A. , Krueger S. , Schwartze S. , Freyer C. , Huynh T. , Sorheim T.
Published: February 2010

Many oil and gas operators around the world are faced with drilling operational risks when entering the matured field phase. Narrow drilling margins, hole collapse and lost circulation are among the challenges that must be dealt with safely and economically.

This paper describes a successful approach to overcoming these challenges developed through close cooperation between the operator and the oilfield services company. By providing an overview of the concept, technology and operating principles of the 9⅝ in and 7 in advanced steerable drilling liner system, the paper highlights the development and the testing process leading to the successful execution of the world's first steerable drilling liner application in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea.

The paper also discuss description of the testing and qualification of the two liner drilling sizes (9⅝ in and 7 in) at the service company's experimental test rig.
Williston Basin - A History of Continuous Performance Improvements Drilling Through the Bakken
Authors: Djurisic Alejandro , Binnion Adrian , Taglieri Anthony , Thompson Jim , Menge Mathias , Fleischhacker Curtis , Hood James
Published: February 2010

The Williston Basin has become one of the more lucrative oil reservoirs in North America over the past few years. The main reservoir occupies about 200,000 square miles of the subsurface of the Williston Basin, covering parts of Western North Dakota, Eastern Montana, and Southern Saskatchewan.

The Bakken Formation was first discovered in 1951, but efforts to extract oil from it have historically been difficult. Efficient production of the Bakken has been achieved with long horizontal wells drilled through reservoirs at depths ranging from 8,000 ft to 10,500 ft (2,438 m to 3,200 m) true vertical depth (TVD). The target reservoir depths and the extended lateral wellbore lengths, require more powerful rigs to meet the operational demands of these well designs. The increased cost and tight economics associated with this play present a strong incentive to improve the drilling performance by reducing drilling time and cost. As a result, a strong focus was placed on improving drilling efficiency in the 9,000 ft to10,000 ft (2,743 m to 3,048 m) lateral wellbore sections, which have the largest impact on the overall well cost.

This paper will introduce the challenges encountered when drilling these wellbore designs and outline the approach taken to optimize the drilling process. The usage of high-performance drilling motors, a review of previously used bottom hole assembly (BHA) concepts, and the benefits of gathering additional real-time downhole drilling data to validate or change best practices will all be discussed. The data presented has been gathered over the past 18 months, mainly in Dunn County of North Dakota, and will show rate of penetration (ROP) improvements of about 50% over this time period. This improvement in drilling efficiencies has proven to reduce the overall drilling time and has impacted the economics of this play significantly.
RCM Principles Provide Predictive Asset Maintenance Benefits, Cost Savings
Authors: Breland Frank , Guy James , Masters Max , Kinert Nathan , Menon Ashe
Published: February 2010

Since its inception, the drilling industry has grown accustomed to a "fire fighting" culture, facing and solving problems as they occur. A study on reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) proposes to move the industry toward a "fire prevention" culture by transferring technologies from industries like aerospace, automotive and downstream petroleum, to develop smarter equipment monitoring and management systems that enable the improved design, construction, and maintenance of rig equipment. RCM principles have yet to be applied in the drilling industry because of the harsh conditions and repeated movement equipment is subjected to over a typical lifecycle.

This study involves identifying equipment on drilling rigs using field-proven radio frequency identifier (RFID) tags, and acoustic and vibration sensors, to measure operational deviations from the baseline. The RFID tags ensure accurate historical data is obtained regarding equipment location and movement. To establish trends, real-time rig equipment data is collected and charted. A web-based application is used to monitor and manage equipment maintenance. Failures that result in maintenance-related downtime are added to the database and the trend is updated. A data analysis model developed using statistical analysis software narrows down potential causes and identifies problem sources.

This study clearly demonstrates that significant economic benefits can be realized by applying RCM practices using smart equipment monitoring and management systems for better preventive rig equipment maintenance. Moreover, RCM application using rig equipment data helps achieve asset maintenance goals, including greater safety, longer life, and higher equipment availability and reliability, while simultaneously enabling better quality product development with greater cost effectiveness.

Applying RCM concepts to predictive asset management and maintenance adds the following to the drilling industry technical knowledge base:

– Industry-proven RCM practices are applied in the drilling industry using rig equipment data to achieve substantial cost savings and other important asset maintenance goals. – Technology transfer concepts are used to identify milestones, measure deliverables and assess the economic benefit from RCM application in the drilling industry.

Correlations between operating conditions and equipment wear are developed by considering formation characteristics and revealing operational differences (e.g. top drive mean-time to failure when drilling in hard vs. soft formations).
Improving Horizontal Well Performance with PDC Bits Designed to Increase Aggressiveness through the Run
Authors: Beuershausen Chad , Schwefe Thorsten , Weinheimer Cara , Kramer Mark
Published: February 2010

A substantial development effort, backed by drilling simulator and field testing, has delivered a directional PDC drill bit optimized for drilling the curve and lateral sections of horizontal wells. The PDC drill bit employs a new technology that controls the aggressiveness of the PDC in specific portions of the well and delivers reduced drilling and operating costs.

With an increased focus on fewer days on a well necessitated by reduced natural gas prices in the North American land market, the need to reduce cost and eliminate bit trips has increased substantially over the past year. Operators in North America Oil/Gas Shale plays have migrated to drilling a combined curve and lateral section with a single bit to reduce operating expenses and rig time. With these changes, the PDC drill bit must maintain toolface control in the curve section, while being able to attain an increased rate of penetration (ROP) in the lateral section.

To maintain toolface control and achieve the desired build-up rates, the axial and lateral aggressiveness of the bit must be managed. To do this, the aggressiveness (Mu) of the PDC drill bit is initially controlled at the kick-off point from the vertical section through the curve section. As the PDC bit drills the curve section, the feature that controls the torsional oscillations is systematically reduced allowing the aggressiveness, thus the ROP, to increase for the lateral section. In atmospheric lab testing, the aggressiveness was increased from 0.38 (curve) to 0.64 (lateral) for the new design. This represents an increase of 68% in the aggressiveness from the beginning of the curve to the end of the lateral section. This has been substantiated in field performance.

The goal for this innovative feature is to control the torsional oscillations at the beginning of the curve section of the well, where control drilling is generally used to achieve the desired build-up rates. Once in the lateral section, the predominant method of drilling changes from sliding to rotating thus the need for the bit to have increased aggressiveness.

This paper demonstrates how selectively managing the torsional oscillations of the PDC drill bit in the curve and lateral sections can increase on-bottom drilling time and decrease operating expenses due to increased toolface control and increased rate of penetration. By efficiently managing the bit's torsional response, a single PDC drill bit can be used in both sections, which allows for a single bottomhole assembly to be run without a trip.
Improved Drilling Performance and Economics Using Hybrid Coiled Tubing Unit on the Chittim Ranch, West Texas
Authors: Littleton B. , Nicholson S. , Blount C.
Published: February 2010

A significant performance and cost improvement was achieved with the application of hybrid Coiled Tubing (CT) drilling equipment and techniques on the Chittim Ranch in Maverick county Texas. During this drilling program, 233 wells were grass-root drilled using the hybrid CT unit. Coiled tubing drilling equipment and techniques reduced the average time to complete a well by 60% when compared to conventional rotary rig drilling. This increase in drilling performance coupled with a turnkey contract resulted in a 14% (33% adjusted for inflation) cost reduction per well when compared to the most recent conventional drilling data from this area.

This paper will review the process used in choosing a CT solution, the hurdles overcome, the problems encountered, and the lessons learned in managing and operating this CT Drilling (CTD) campaign. The paper will also provide an overview of CT coring performed in one of the wells during the CTD campaign.

The drilling performance increase was realized using a top-set rig to set surface casing and a hybrid "Big Wheel" CT rig to drill the production hole. Finalized project data demonstrated that field performance using CTD met and in some areas exceeded project goals.
Case Study: API Box Boreback Stress Relief With Truncated Threads Can Cause Premature Connection Fatigue Failure
Authors: Gerdes Michael B. , Lee Kang
Published: February 2010

A rotary shouldered connection (RSC) can be modified with two stress relief features to improve its fatigue performance: 1) A stress relief groove on the pin and/or 2) A boreback feature on the box, commonly called a box boreback. Both are API approved stress relief features, whose only purpose is to mitigate stress concentration caused by unengaged threads in the connection. However, under certain operating conditions the box boreback feature as traditionally machined can actually reduce the fatigue life of the connection. Prompted by recognition of unique failure locations in the box of numerous BHA connection types, the authors performed finite element analysis to better understand the fatigue mechanisms driving the failures.

In a typical API box boreback, the crests of the last four or five threads are cut short, resulting in truncated threads. Regarding the box boreback feature, API Specification 7-2 (API, 2008) controls for three primary dimensional variables by connection type & size: 1) Cylinder diameter 2) Depth to last thread scratch 3) Depth to end of cylinder. A machined boreback will be technically acceptable adhering to these dimensional requirements, which allow for truncated threads, but this method is not optimal. The approach does offer two commercial advantages for the tool owner as it is both simpler to execute and leaves greater material behind for future recuts. API 7-2 also allows for a box stress relief groove, but this feature is rarely used commercially for similar reasons. To quantify the impact of the box boreback on fatigue life, the authors modeled a failed NC46 drill collar connection with the feature and compared with hypothetical configurations of the same connection.
SATB2 haploinsufficiency in patients with cleft palate
Authors: Writzl Karin , Lovrečić Luca , Vojtaššák Ján , Peterlin Borut
Published: January 2010

De novo translocation interrupting the transcription unit of SATB2 gene has been associated with cleft palate only (CPO). We tested for the presence of the copy number of SATB2 gene in a sample of 92 patients with CPO using a quantitative real-time PCR approach. In one patient (1%, 95% CI = 0.2%–6%), a 19 Mb de novo deletion encompassing the SATB2 gene was detected. These results suggest that SATB2 gene deletions do not play an important role in the etiology of cleft palate.
Aorta transplantation in young apolipoprotein E-deficient mice: Possible model for studies on regression of atherosclerotic lesions?
Authors: Tonar Zbyněk , Bobková Dagmar , Witter Kirsti , Matějka Vít , Havlíčková Jana , Lánská Věra , Poledne Rudolf
Published: January 2010

Syngeneic transplantation of murine aorta segments with advanced atherosclerotic lesions in defined recipients is a valuable model for regression studies. To date, this model has not been used to study the regression of initial atherosclerotic lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate a microsurgical technique of syngeneic heterotopic transplantation of the thoracic aorta of young apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice to the abdominal aorta of wild-type recipients. Stereological quantification methods were tested in order to assess changes in structure and volume of the aortic wall including the involvement of immune cells in changes of the atherosclerotic lesions. The animals were euthanised one month after surgery and histological analysis including stereological quantification of changes in both the grafts and adjacent aorta segments was performed. The overall survival rate of the recipients was 62.5%. No regression of initial atherosclerotic lesion was achieved and neointima formation and elastin degradation prevailed in all transplanted specimens. The volume of the arteriosclerotic lesions was higher (p<0.001) and elastin length density was lower (p<0.001) in transplanted ApoE-/- samples as compared to adjacent segments. In transplanted grafts, T- and B-lymphocytes, macrophages and neutrophilic granulocytes formed non-random clusters within the vessel wall and they were colocalised with the sutures. The reproducibility of the promising regression model was derogated in young mice by the striking dependence of the results upon the operation technique. Stereological assessment has proven to be accurate, correct and reproducible; it has provided us with robust quantitative estimates, which can be achieved with a reasonable effort.
Fluconazole, caspofungin, voriconazole in combination with amphotericin B
Authors: Kalkanci Ayse , Dizbay Murat , Sari Nuran , Yalcin Burce , Fidan Isil , Arman Dilek , Kustimur Semra
Published: January 2010

Combined antifungal therapy has been suggested to enhance the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of antifungal agents. The aim of the study was to investigate the in vitro synergistic activity of caspofungin, voriconazole, and fluconazole with amphotericin B against ten isolates of Candida parapsilosis and Candida albicans strains which were resistant to azoles or amphotericin B. Three different antifungal combinations (amphotericin B [AP] — caspofungin [CS], amphotericin B — fluconazole [FL], and AP — voriconazole [VO]) were evaluated for in vitro synergistic effect by the microdilution checkerboard and E-test methods. For the majority of strains, the combination test showed indifferent activity. Via the E-test method, synergistic activity was seen in 3 strains in response to AP-CS combination treatment and in one strain after administration of AP-FL; however, no synergy was observed in response to combination treatment with P-VO. Antagonistic activity was the result in 1 strain treated with AP-CS as well as in 6 strains treated with AP-FL and AP-VO combinations. Via the microdilution test, no synergistic activity was seen after treatment with all 3 combinations. Antagonistic activity was the result in 2 strains with AP-CS, in 6 strains with AP-VO and in 5 strains with AP-FL combinations. Agreement between the checkerboard and E-test methods was observed to be approximately 72%. These combinations may be used in the case of antifungal resistance.
Genitourinary tuberculosis in a 54-year-old woman: diagnostic difficulty
Authors: Agca Harun , Baylan Orhan , Ozyurt Mustafa , Acar Ali , Demirpek Ugur , Haznedaroglu Tuncer
Published: January 2010

Genitourinary tuberculosis (GUTB) is an extrapulmonary manifestation of tuberculosis seen in 1.2% of all cases of tuberculosis. The clinical case of a 54-year-old woman diagnosed with GUTB is presented. Cloudy urine, abdominal pain, and microscopic hematuria led us to investigate for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Although cultures were negative, positive Ehrlich-Ziehl-Neelsen (EZN) staining and a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) revealed the diagnosis of M. tuberculosis complex (MTC), which was confirmed by treatment success. It has been shown that PCR is a reliable and rapid method for establishing or supporting the diagnosis of tuberculosis and can be used in a routine diagnostic algorithm when conventional methods fail to identify MTC.