bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ensuring High-Quality LWD Sonic Data to Emplace Radioactive Compaction Monitoring Markers in an UHPHT Setting
Authors: Banks John , Shotton Peter , Di Tommaso Davide , Anderson Claire
Published: November 2020

The Culzean field is an ultra-High Pressure, High Temperature (uHPHT) gas-condensate accumulation and is one of the largest development projects of recent years in the UKCS. From experience in analogue fields, compaction is likely to occur and negatively impact the deliverability of wells. With accurate geomechanical modelling such issues can be assessed and proactively mitigated.

Measurement of changes in distance between radioactive markers is a recognised technique for compaction monitoring. The measurement is undertaken throughout the life of the well and is used in the calibration of field geomechanical models. Markers were emplaced in two wells in Culzean. To ensure safe and successful emplacement of the markers a real-time estimation of rock strength was undertaken using logging-while-drilling (LWD) sonic data. Key to success was obtaining the correct data for timely decisions on the depth of radioactive markers.

The paper describes the process used to validate sonic data from an LWD sonic tool by comparison with a wireline acquisition and its later application in two additional wells where markers will be emplaced. A unipolar LWD sensor was included in the drilling assembly to transmit semblance image in real time, which was manually picked on surface for compressional and shear slowness. Rather than automatic downhole picking, this approach allowed immediate offset wells comparison, improved reliability and quality checking which increased confidence in the final product. In the initial well, the resulting logs were compared with data acquired from a wireline dipole sonic tool showing a very good match and proving "equivalent-to-wireline" quality of the measurement.

In two subsequent wells once total depth was reached, raw memory and diagnostic data were downloaded from the tool for functional and quality checks and processed to generate semblance images. After undergoing quality check, evaluation and post processing, when needed for improvement, the acoustic data was used to calculate Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) estimates. This then guided the selection of depths for the radioactive markers.

The use of a LWD sonic tool, providing reliable acoustic data to generate a UCS, allows a quick turnaround for mobilisation of equipment (i.e. markers) and enabled the operator to acquire data in an uHPHT environment.
Water Flooding Performance Prediction in Layered Heavy Oil Reservoir
Authors: Liu Yigang , Han Xiaodong , Chen Cunliang , Wang Hongyu , Liu Hao
Published: November 2020

Prediction of oilfield development data is one of the important technical indicators for oilfields to achieve maximum economic benefits. Numerical simulation method is the most commonly used method. However it has been widely used with a long run time and too much information to solve this problem. With the continuous development of big data technology and artificial intelligence technology, there is an urgent need to form a development index prediction method based on such technologies.

This paper proposed a new method to predict water flooding performance in layered reservoir. The method regards layered reservoir as a vertical superposition of a series of single layer reservoirs. An injection-production analysis model is established in each single layer reservoir respectively, which considers invasion of natural water and the start-up pressure gradient of heavy oil reservoir. And then a composite model is established only by production data. Finally, the least square principle and artificial intelligence algorithm are used to optimize the model. Then the Gentil's correlation method is used to predict production performance. As development progresses, the production data became more and more abundant, and they replaced the model and re-optimized it. Oilfield applications showed that this technique has capability to predict oil performance in layered reservoir.
Understanding Sand Control Installation Failures
Authors: Tibbles Raymond , Govinathan Kesavan , Mickelburgh Ian , Jain Samyak , Wassouf Philip
Published: November 2020

The sand control completion is the last step in the well construction. It is the step that turns the well from an expense to a revenue generating asset. While every sand control completion is designed for success, things don't always go to plan during the installation, and the technical and commercial results are sometimes less than perfect. Failures can range from minor issues that can be easily remedied to catastrophic events that put the entire well, and investment, at risk. Regardless of severity, it is critical that all failures are analyzed to determine the root cause, prevent them from being repeated and protect asset value. The success of a sand control installation should not be assumed and can only be confirmed with a thorough review of all available job data.

This paper introduces several case studies of failures that occurred during sand control installations and details the investigative process and techniques used to identify the root causes. Examples include events such as screen/wash-pipe damage, bridging, hole collapse, and packer seal failure. This analysis provides key insights into downhole events and mechanisms that can be used to minimize risk and improve future completions.
Innovative Solution for IWAG Injection Monitoring Using Fiber Optic Cable Cemented Behind Casing in an Intelligent Well: A First in Malaysia
Authors: P Mosar Nur Faizah , Ceccarelli Tomaso Umberto , Tan Chee Seong , Arsat Maisara , Mohd Yaacob Mohd Khairul , Sinanan Haydn Brendt , Fabian Oka , Suratman Muhamad Farhan , Samuel Orient Balbir
Published: November 2020

Water and gas injection are widely used techniques to alleviate pressure decline and improve sweep efficiency in brownfield reservoirs. When variable reservoir properties exist, such as permeability, pressure, and thickness, the requirements for real-time monitoring and control become crucial to ensure zonal injection target rates and volumes are achieved.

The Bokor Field is located in the Baram Delta area of the South China Sea, 45 km from the shore of Sarawak, Malaysia, in a water depth of approximately 70 m. This marks the initial use in Malaysia of a distributed temperature sensing (DTS) fiber optic cable installed and cemented behind casing in a multizone immiscible water alternating gas (IWAG) injection well. Injection profiling was monitored via the DTS across multistacked reservoirs having different horizontal permeabilities. The DTS detected injection profile patterns within each zone and enabled identification of high permeability streaks and thief zones. Inflow control valves (ICV) were then used for injection management and control.

For Bokor well, offshore Malaysia, an intelligent completion system was chosen. The well comprised downhole flow control valves with 8 choke positions, permanent downhole gauges, and a DTS cable to enable optimum injection conformance. DTS provides real-time temperature measurements along a multimode optical fiber encased in a ¼-in control line. Enhanced measurement accuracy can be achieved by placing the DTS cable as close as possible to the reservoir by installing it behind the production casing in direct contact with the reservoir formation.

Deployment of the DTS in such a way presents several challenges in the design and operational phases. The first challenge is to ensure the integrity of the cable while running and cementing the casing in a highly deviated trajectory. Special equipment was designed to ensure mechanical protection of the fiber while safeguarding the quality of the cement-to-casing bond. An innovative TCP perforating technique and cable detection system had to be developed to prevent damage to the DTS when perforating the casing. Several design interfaces and system integration tests were identified and carried out between multiple providers to guarantee a smooth and successful installation.

Preliminary results demonstrate intelligent technology for real-time monitoring of the actual injection profile behind casing, and for controlling it remotely via an RTAC (real-time acquisition and control) software solution.
Fluid Contact Monitoring Using Pulsed–Neutron Logging in Challenging Gas–Filled Boreholes for Production Planning in a Mature Carbonate Gas Field
Authors: Phettongkam Numan , Zakeria Ahmad Fakrudin , Mohamed Razman Nur Faradilla , Mohamad Amin Mohamad Farid , Purlya Chesci , Mohd Jumat Norhazilla
Published: November 2020

Fluid contact logging using pulsed neutron (PND) tool in challenging gas-filled boreholes is essential for gas field life monitoring, especially following sustained production. The acquired data is used to identify the remaining gas column and pore fluid contact movements for future planning to optimize production. In this field, wells were logged with the PND tool to identify the current GWC.

The gas-filled boreholes with unknown liquid levels was logged with the PND tool in sigma mode. Sigma, near and far count, and its ratio were used to identify the gas-water contact. A minimum of 2 passes were required for quality control using repeatability, which increased the confidence in the interpretation. Ideally, it is always recommended to run PND tool in a liquid-filled borehole to establish confident gas and liquid differentiation. Due to operational constraints, the wells could not be filled up with water. Thus, the PND tool was run in challenging conditions to detect gas/water contact movement after many years of production.

Sigma data revealed the fluid contact changes in the target carbonate reservoir regardless of the borehole fluid variation in all 4 wells, allowing mapping of the remaining gas level. Due to fluid level uncertainty in the borehole, liquid level variation in each well was observed for all wells based on early time period, burst measurement. Despite the variation of borehole fluid, the great depth of investigation of the sigma measurement enabled the fluid contact to be determined. Also, the top of the carbonate could be determined from the high to low deflection, which indicates the transition from shale to carbonate in the upper gas zone. The fluid contact could be identified by the increasing trend from the low sigma gas zone to a higher sigma in the liquid zone. The near and far count also suggest a similar response, though with some effect of gas borehole fluid on the measurement. Repeatability between 2 passes increases the confidence in the interpretation, even in challenging wells where borehole fluid-level changes has been observed. The fluid contact could be determined in all 4 wells that were logged using both measurements (sigma, near and far count). In addition, by running a gamma ray sensor with this tool, the gamma ray log suggests the possibility of scale build up from produced water, which is essential input for future reservoir management.

The fluid contact could be determined despite a challenging logging environment for the pulsed neutron tool using sigma measurements without the need to fill up the gas well with water for ideal logging conditions. The current identified contact, together with possible scale buildup, are then used by the reservoir management team to facilitate future production planning.
A New Mathematical Workflow to Predict Permeability Variation using Flowing Gas Material Balance
Authors: Haq Bashirul , Al Shehri Dhafer Abdullah , Mohammed Isah , Olayiwola Teslim , Muhammed Nasiru Salahu , Hasan Zahid
Published: November 2020

In the dynamic approach, production data including the flowing wellhead or bottomhole pressures are used to conduct the material balance analysis to determine the gas in place at any time during the life of well. However, the procedure did not extend to identify the well health issues such as permeability variation. The objective of this research is to develop a simplified mathematical workflow to identify and verify permeability variation using flowing gas material balance.

In this approach, a new form of flowing gas material balance equation is derived by adding permeability variation term. In this new mathematical workflow, linear and exponential curve fitting tools along with the flowing material balance analysis are used to predict well expected behavior. The prediction is then compared with initial well production behavior. The deviation of the prediction and the expected production behavior formed the basis of permeability variation.

The component of the model is tested with known data and then the total model is verified with known values. After that, the workflow is applied in the gas well. The new model prediction is validated using field data and the prediction compares quite well. The well health diagnostics are successfully compared with known well issues from an active gas field. Results presented in this paper will show that the novel workflow is able to accurately predict permeability variations in both constant and variable production rates. In addition, the new workflow enables the production engineers to send an alarm to take corrective measure about the issue and to diagnose production issues like permeability variation.
Thermal Energy Harvesting from Oil and Gas Flow
Authors: Arsalan Muhammad , Ahmad Talha Jamal , Saeed Abubaker S.
Published: November 2020

This work describes the need for energy harvesting in horizontal wells and demonstrates a novel concept of thermal energy harvesting. The concept utilizes temperature differences in compressible fluids generated by vortex tubes using thermoelectric generators (TEGs). The method is ideal for fluid environments where thermal gradient is either lacking or is negligible such as horizontal portion of the multilateral oil and gas wells. Laboratory-based experimental validation of the concept is presented in this paper showing the potential of a significant amount of energy harvesting in difficult to access locations and environments including downhole in multilaterals where limited usable energy sources are available besides the flow to power autonomous circuits and systems for monitoring and control applications.
Lazy Wave Steel Catenary Riser Design Optimisation in Digital Field Twin
Authors: Bhowmik Subrata , Naik Harit , Noiray Gautier
Published: November 2020

The objective of the paper is to optimise the Steel Lazy Wave Riser configuration based on an analytical approach and implement the riser design automation in cloud-based digital subsea field. The methodology demonstrates the effective implementation of multi-objective optimisation methods based Genetic Algorithm (GA) and hybrid GA with Radial Basis Function(RBF).

Steel Lazy Wave Riser (SLWR) configuration is considered for the riser design optimisation and automation. The configuration consists of multiple design variables such as top angle, sag bend elevation, hog bend elevation, length of the buoyancy section and the module diameter. The riser configuration optimisation is time-consuming and exhaustive method due to nonlinear time domain analysis and a large number of load cases. Therefore, a novel analytical optimisation technique is developed to reduce the computational cost as well as the complexity using automation. The riser design automation procedures consist of the following steps: 1. The multi-objective optimisation algorithm is used to find the optimal configuration of the riser systems in static condition 2. The optimised configurations in the static state are used for further optimisation based on fatigue and extreme load conditions. 3. Use the final optimal configuration for generating the orcaflex simulation file and perform the design automation in the cloud-based subsea digital field.

The proposed optimisation and design automation method minimises both the maximum riser stress and the cumulative fatigue damage of the SLWR configurations. It also demonstrates the significant reduction in computational cost as well automation helps to reduce the standard error occurs due to manual inputs. The all necessary design data are received from the cloud-based field development and perform the calculation in the cloud. The whole procedures are presented in a very efficient and time-saving manner in cloud-based field platform.

The traditional design of the riser configuration is very experience-dependent as well as very time-consuming. But the riser design optimisation using the optimisation algorithm based on GA can save considerable computational time and also less need for design experience.
Sand Dilation Study and its Effect on Porosity and Permeability During Cyclic Steam Stimulation by In-Situ Imaging Technique
Authors: Bashir Arsalan , Hashmet Muhammad Rehan
Published: November 2020

Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS) is an effective and widely used technique to recover the heavy oil/bitumen. However, due to its complex nature, it has not been studied in detail experimentally. Most of the Canadian bitumen reservoirs have negligible steam injectivity, therefore to recover oil from such reservoirs, steam is injected at pressure higher than the overburden causing the pore pressure to increase and allow the disturbance in the sand, referred as sand dilation.

This study aims to investigate changes in permeability and porosity of sand pack while varying net stresses occurring during CSS. New coreflooding equipment was designed, fabricated and commissioned aided with mechanical clamps to prevent leakages specially while reaching minimum net stress through providing strong grip between mandrels and rubber sleeve. To understand flow mechanism at the prevailing conditions, real time visualization study was carried out by using CT scanner. The images of in-situ fluid flow patterns with specific CT numbers were used to obtain a density map over the entire length of sand pack which was translated to porosity.

Ottawa's sand with the highest concentration of 100-140 mesh was used for sand pack preparation by following the wet packing procedure. Methanol was used for this purpose. During the flooding test net stresses were increased and decreased in cycles by injecting steam and later hot water and at every phase scanning was done to apprehend the changes in the CT numbers and density. Permeability was also measured to understand the changes resulted due to varying net stresses. At minimum net stress the sand pack was fractured and the flow paths were confirmed from the CT images causing a radical change in permeability of 22.13% increase. This disturbance in sand during pore pressure variation was irreversible. However, not a considerable change in porosity was observed once the flow took place through the fractures.

This research work has helped to understand the disturbance of sand by steam and hot water injection during CSS and identification of possible flow paths with help of CT images at real time. The changes reported in permeability are for the specific range of sand particle size, pressure and temperature conditions under which this study was conducted.
Seamless Integration of Well Test Interpretation Results into Reservoir Simulation Model
Authors: Chouya Smail
Published: November 2020

Reservoir rock properties characterization using well test data is crucial for the success of field exploration and development phases. Unfortunately, the conventional well test interpretation approach is based on analytical models (Horner plot, Gringarten type curves, and Bourdet derivative) which does not consider the reservoir complexity and the actual geological information used in reservoir simulation models. This may lead to non-geological interpretation and inaccurate reservoir description. Various testing methods are generally used in the oil and gas industry to evaluate the reservoir performance and acquire useful information to reduce uncertainties in reservoir characterization. The two common methods are interval pressure transient testing (IPTT) and drill stem test (DST). Integration of the DST/IPTT interpretation results into the reservoir simulation model is required to better characterize the reservoir properties and help minimize the uncertainties in rock property distribution around the wellbore. Unfortunately, this integration is not done automatically and systematically.

A grid-based inversion techniques of the pressure transient test is introduced to allow seamless integration of well test data into a reservoir model. This technique uses the same grid for the dynamic simulation model to discretize the reservoir properties. It is based on data assimilation, represented by Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) and maximum likelihood techniques such as gradient-based methods. The main challenge of this technique is how to deal with large unknowns in reservoir parameters. This requires the use of Bayesian framework technique (similar to seismic inversion) to overcome the challenge of large unknown parameters.

A workflow that allows a seamless integration of well test interpretation results into the reservoir simulation model is used considering the prior geological knowledge of the reservoir that provides an efficient way to integrate IPTT/DST results and geological information. The grid-based inversion technique has been successfully tested and used to better estimate the reservoir parameters using well test data. The integration of the IPTT results into the reservoir model helped to reduce uncertainties in near wellbore permeability distribution, which ultimately allowed to achieve better history match of the pressure data.

The new integration workflow reconciles static and dynamic reservoir data to update the geological reservoir model with meaningful parameters. It also allows seamless integration (which was not possible before) of well test data into reservoir simulation model which is key for successful reservoir management.
Research and Practice of Chemical Flooding on Offshore Heavy Oilfield in Bohai Bay of China
Authors: Li Yanlai , Su Yanchun , Yang Wei , Meng Peng , Wang Lilei
Published: November 2020

The Bohai Bay Basin is very rich in heavy oil. Generally the water flooding recovery of heavy oil reservoirs is only 18-20% in Bohai Oilfield, which has great potential for EOR. Being a mature technology in onshore oilfields, polymer flooding in Bohai Oilfield faces a serious of difficulties including choosing the best polymer injection opportunity in limited platform life, poor applicability of existing polymers and polymer preparation and production fluid treatment restricted by platform space. In recent years, several large heavy oil fields have carried out chemical flooding test. In order to solve the above problems, the early stage polymer injection development mode which breaks the limit of secondary and tertiary oil recovery was practiced to fit the service life of platform; a new kind of hydrophobic associative polymer was designed to meet the demand of viscous crude oil, high hardness water, strong shear force and large well spacing in Bohai Oilfield; a serious new facilities used for polymer instant solution and production fluid treatment was designed to fit the narrow space of platform.

The tests show that the early stage polymer injection development mode in offshore heavy oil fields has achieved good results. It effectively reduces or stabilizes the water cut and increases oil production significantly. Based on the good test results, the scale of injection test in Bohai Oilfield expands continuously. It develops from 1 injection and 5 production in a single well group to 44 injection and 171 production in three oilfields, with polymer flooding reserves reaching 144×106m3. According to statistics, in the recent 5 years, the cumulative oil production of polymer flooding has reached 5.651×106m3, and the recovery rate is increased by 3.9%, which is expected to be 8% in the future. Successful application of the technologies has significantly improved the development effect of offshore heavy oilfields. Even in the low oil price period, it has created tremendous economic value for the company. Nowadays polymer flooding has become a necessary means of stabilizing oil and controlling water in old oilfields in Bohai.
The roles of foreign influences in the evolution of social and filial relations in Nigeria
Authors: Akomolafe Mohammed Akinola
Published: November 2020

Nigeria, as a geographical entity is replete with various ethnic and cultural identities that have continued to evolve from pre-colonial times to recenttimes. Granted that civilizations from Europe and Arabia have dictated almost all spheres of living, both in the Northern and Southern geographies of the country and eroded nearly all traditional values that would have assisted in curbing social and filial tensions; it is pertinent to inquire into the social relations before this ‘encounter.’ This is important as this research seeks to invoke some aspects of the past that can be relevant for contemporary utility. Hence, through the method of critical analysis, this study takes a look at the socio-economic norms among the pre-colonial cultures that eventually evolved into Nigeria, paying attention to the place of slaves and women and laying emphasis on the filial and communal nature which allowed for a not too wide the gap between the rich and the poor. Even when this study is not unaware of the positive roles of foreign influence, it recounts the deficits of this presence and suggests that aproper way is to explore some indigenous ideas and apply them for contemporary living.

Keywords: Culture, Family, Moral Values, Nigeria, Pre-colonial
Qualified objection to Ani’s qualified acceptance of Wiredu’s notion of consensus democracy in Africa
Authors: Olatunji Cyril-Mary Pius , Koenane Mojalefa L.J.
Published: November 2020

This essay offers a critical review of Emmanuel Ifeanyi Ani’s article ‘On agreed action without agreed notions.’ Ani’s paper makes a critique of Kwasi Wiredu’s consensual democracy to the conclusion that though desirable, left the way it is, the model of consensus on which the idea of Wiredu’s non-party democracy was founded is itself admirable but defective and, therefore, calls for further enhancements. While not suggesting that Wiredu’s idea is perfect, this paper provides some objections to Ani’s view without necessarily aiming to make an apologetic defence of Wiredu. In the process, this paper, employing a critical conversation method, examines the most salient criticisms of Ani against Wiredu to the conclusion that Ani’s suggestion, by which he has opened up a new horizon in understanding human nature and assisting in making scholarly post-deliberation analysis, is impracticable. That is, it is still practically incapable of necessarily impacting any significant value to the process involved in attaining consensus itself.

Keywords: Africa, Philosophy, Consensus, Democracy, Values
Book Review: Consensus as Democracy in Africa
Authors: Akpan Andrew
Published: November 2020

Book Title: Consensus as Democracy in Africa

Book Author: Bernard Matolino

Size: 168 x 240 mm. Pages: 240 pages. ISBN 13: 978-1-920033-31-6. Published: October 2018. Publishers: NISC (Pty) Ltd for African Humanities Program. Cover: Paperback.
United Nations Security Council and denuclearization of North Korea: Interrogating the imperative for freeze-for-freeze option
Authors: Itumo A. , Nnaji F.C. , Nwobashi H.N.
Published: November 2020

The continued nuclear enrichment by North Korea despite several sanctions from the United Nations Security Council has continued to attract mixed reactions from scholars, security experts, policy makers and strategic thinkers. The issue has generated serious controversy which has  become a critical subject of concern that dominates debates in many international and local discourses since the recent time. In most of these fora relevant stakeholders have proposed solutions for the denuclearization of North Korea in view of its implications for both regional stability and global security. This paper interrogates the import and feasibility of the freeze-for-freeze option proposed by Russia and China for the denuclearization of North Korea. Data for the study were sourced from secondary sources, specifically from published journal articles, official gazettes from relevant government agencies and institutions. The theoretical framework that anchors the study is the theory of Collective Security  while content analytical technique is employed for data analysis. A critical analysis of data revealed among others, that; North Korea’s nuclear armament has thrown up tension in the Korea peninsula which poses a grave threat to South East Asian stability, global peace and security. This is  further exacerbated by frequent joint military drills between the United States and South Korea close to North Korean border. The study also discovered that the use of sanctions has failed to disempower North Korea from becoming a nuclear power hence the argument for the adoption of Freeze-for-Freeze option. The study recommended amongst others that the United Nations Security Council members should cooperate and adopt  a nonmilitary option towards North Korea’s denuclearization in order to save the world from a nuclear war. Furthermore, the US should reconsider a cessation of her joint military drills with South Korea in exchange for a full disarmament of all North Korean nuclear weapons and associated  facilities. In all, the paper recommended for an internationally supervised peace treaty between North and South Korea that pledges mutual non-aggression and restoration of full diplomatic relations.

Keywords:  Nuclear Weapons, Proliferation, Sanctions, Freeze-for-Freeze, Denuclearization
Trade Union amendment act 2005 and the entrenchment of industrial democracy in the Nigeria Public Service: An x-ray of the political undercurrent
Authors: Ughulu Eghoikhunu Stella , Nwokike Eunice Ijeaku
Published: November 2020

The Federal Government of Nigeria in 2005 amended some sections of the Trade Union Act referred to as “The Principal Act” 1996 to form the new Trade Union (Amendment) Act 2005. The main objective of the new Act was the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria public service by giving workers the freedom to choose which union to belong and opportunity to form more central union organizations, thereby encouraging industrial democracy. It is on this note that this study examined the political underlying motive in enacting the new Act in relation to industrial democracy in Nigeria Public Service, the weaknesses and strength of the Act were examined. The study relied on the secondary method of data collection. The study concluded that the enactment of the Trade Union (Amendment) Act 2005 was politically motivated to give the government the much-needed space to implement certain policies and decisions that are comfortable for the government. The study then recommended that the governmentshould embark on nation-wide consultation with stakeholders to develop valid amendments in Trade Union Acts for the betterment of all and not for the exploitation of the masses.

Keywords: Trade Union Amendment Act, industrial democracy and Public service.
Evaluating the Quality Assurance and Control of Hot-Mix Asphalt from Selected Plants in South West, Nigeria
Authors: Olutaiwo A.O. , Adanikin A.
Published: November 2020

Roads are essential necessity of every nation and it is possible that even with proper designs, the roads might not be constructed to the design standard due to poor quality assurance and control resulting in poor pavement quality. This study presents experimental results carried out on various hot - mix asphalt (HMA) samples obtained across different Asphalt plants in South West Nigeria. This was done to determine the extent to which the HMA used in the construction and rehabilitation of Nigerian roads affect their service life. Six samples of the asphalt binder (bitumen) were obtained from each plant over a period of six months and tested. The tested properties were assessed based on the level of conformance with the specifications and requirements from the FMWH General Specification (Roads and Bridges). The results revealed that HMA from plant B had a specific gravity of 1.01, penetration of 65.00 mm, softening point of 53 oC, flash point of 237.00 oC, peak Marshall Stability of 18.25 kN, flow of 3.87 mm and voids in total mixture peak value of 5.08 %. HMA from plant E had a specific gravity of 1.03, penetration of 65.00 mm, softening point of 51 oC, flash point of 239.00 oC, peak marshall stability of 18.26 kN, flow of 3.67 mm and voids in total mixture peak value of 4.99 % and these were adjudged the best in conformance with the FMWH specifications. Adequate monitoring of HMA quality for either binder or wearing courses by carrying out quality control and assurance tests is thereby recommended as it affects pavement durability and performance.

Keywords: Hot-mix asphalt, quality assurance, quality control, marshall stability, flow test
Efficacy of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell transplantation in dogs with chronic spinal cord injury
Authors: Tamura Katsutoshi , Maeta Noritaka
Published: November 2020

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is relatively common in dogs and is a devastating condition involving loss of sensory neurons and motor  neurons. However, the main clinical protocol for the management of SCI is surgery to decompress and stabilize the vertebra. Cell transplantation therapy is a very promising strategy for the treatment of chronic SCI, but extensive preclinical and clinical research work remains.Aim: The aim of this study is to confirm the effect of bone marrow-derived mononuclear cell (BM-MNC) transplantation for chronic SCI in dogs.Methods: We tested the treatment efficiency of chronic SCI in 12 dogs using BM-MNC transplantation. Neurological evaluation used the Texas Spinal Cord Injury Scale (TSCIS). Concurrently, we characterized the transplanted cells by evaluation using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Result: All dogs had a pre-transplantation TSCIS score of 0. Two animals did not show any improvement in their final TSCIS scores. The remaining 10 dogs (83.4%) achieved improvement in the final TSCIS scores. Five of them (41.7%) regained ambulatory function with a TSCIS score greater than 10. We determined that canine BM-MNCs expressed hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mRNA at higher levels than other cytokines, with significant  increases in HGF levels in cerebrospinal fluid within 48 hours after autologous BM-MNC transplantation into the subarachnoid space of the spinal dura matter in dogs.Conclusions: BM-MNC transplantation may be effective for at least some cases of chronic SCI.

Keywords: Bone marrow-derived mononuclear cell, Cell therapy, Spinal cord injury.
Impact of early weaning on constituents and nutritional values of camel milk in modern system
Authors: Mustafa Ayman Balla , Faraz Asim , Baum Douglas , Elgenaidi Abdalla , Bashari Mohanad , Alkaskas Adukali , Elhag Ahmed
Published: November 2020

Background: Camel milk is very suitable for human nutritional requirements, and its composition has similarities to mother’s milk. Many scientific researches focusing on the myth of nutritional and therapeutic properties of camel milk have been brought to public attention.Aim: This study aims to clarify the impact of early weaning on constituents and nutritional values of the milk of camels reared under a modern farming system during four months postpartum.Methods: Eight lactating camels and eight calves were selected immediately after calving and were assigned to two equal groups under a semi-intensive system in a farm. In the early weaning group (G1), all the calves were allowed to freely suckle their mother’s teats from birth to 30 days postpartum. Afterward, the calves were used to stimulate milk letdown for each of the camels’ teats for a few seconds before the milking procedure. While in the late weaning group (G2), the calves freely suckled their mother’s teats up to 80 days postpartum. Afterward, the calves were restrictedfrom suckling and were used mainly to stimulate milk letdown for the milking procedure. Collection of milk samples started in the 2nd week of postpartum and continued over biweekly intervals up to 16 weeks to determine major fat, protein, lactose, solid non-fat (SNF), and density percentages.Results: The results revealed significant differences in fat, lactose, and density content between groups. We reported significant increases in the percentages of fat, lactose, protein, and SNF levels, besides fluctuations in density with the advancement of the lactation stage.Conclusion: In the early weaning group, the dams produced milk containing high levels of fat and SNF compared to the lactating dams in the late weaning group.

Keywords: Dromedary camel, Early weaning, Milk constituents, Modern system, Nutritional value.
Prostatectomy as a treatment for canine prostate cancer: a literature review
Authors: Stans Jelle
Published: November 2020

Canine prostate cancer is a relatively rare condition with a poor prognosis. Both total and partial prostatectomy have been described as treatment  strategies for this condition. Based on the available literature, it is clear that prostatectomy is usually employed in combination with other  therapeutic strategies. However, it is apparent that the procedure is currently not suitable for curative intent. Its role as a palliative therapy has been better established. Among others, urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections were reported as important complications. The reported  frequencies varied per study. Future research is needed to establish the role of prostatectomy in the treatment of canine prostate cancer. Based on the current lack of prospective studies, it is difficult to state whether prostatectomy should become a routine practice or first-line standard of care. Novel protocols for treating canine prostate cancer should be established.

Keywords: Cancer, Carcinoma, Dogs, Prostate, Prostatectomy.
Microbiota of gills and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacteria isolates from Clarias gariepinus in different holding facilities
Authors: Adah D.A. , Saidu L , Oniye S.J. , Adah S.A. , Daodu O.B. , David S.M. , Olatunde A.O.
Published: November 2020

Gill is a key respiratory and excretory organ in fish as it provides oxygen need for survival and excretes waste products. However, gills can be infected with pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria leading to increasing fish morbidity and mortality. This study was carried out to isolate, estimate and identify bacteria on the gills of Clarias gariepinus reared in different holding facilities. The susceptibility patterns of the bacteria were also studied using 10 antibiotics commonly used in pisciculture in Nigeria. A total of 84 bacteria belonging to 12 genera were isolated from the gills of 75 Clarias gariepinus. Gram-negative bacteria isolated included Salmonella species (3.6%), Pseudomonas species (7.1%), Aeromonas species (2.4%), Escherichia coli (13.1%), Proteus species (11.9%) Klebsiella species (3.6%), Citrobacter species (4.8%), and Shigella species (3.6%). Gram-positive Corynebacterium species (3.6 %), Staphylococcus species (20.3%), Bacillus species (19.0%) and Streptococcus species (7.1%) were also isolated. The result showed varying bacteria species when considering the different holding facilities. Greater than 50 % of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria isolated were resistant to 5 and 6 different antibiotics respectively while greater than 80 % of all the bacteria were resistant to ≥ 3 antibiotics. The presence of these bacteria in fish predict subsequent impediment in pisciculture and may lead to socioeconomic losses, environmental contaminations and high public health risk. This study calls for concern and an urgent intervention on antibiotic stewardship among fish farmers.

Keywords: Antibiotics resistance, Clarias gariepinus, Fish farms, Gills microbiota, Kaduna state
Correction to: Comparison of electrocardiographic parameters of racing and non-racing horses in Sokoto Nigeria
Authors: Saidu B , Ja’afaru A.I. , Ibrahim H.M. , Dahiru A , Abdullahi A.M. , Onwuchekwa C , Abdulazeez N , Pilau N.N. , Abdulrasheed A , Bamaiyi A.J.
Published: November 2020

The initial version of the article published in Volume 18 number 1 (March, 2020) contained errors in the names of AJ Ishaq and N Abduazeez. Their correct names are: AI Ja’afaru and N Abdulazeez, respectively.
Co-circulation of dengue virus 1 and 2 several years after single serotype detection in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Onoja A.B. , George U.E. , Gadzama I.S.
Published: November 2020

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease which affects over 390 million people annually around the world. High rates of unrecognized dengue infections have been observed in Nigeria through serological assays. This informed molecular investigation in some areas where previous reports were made. We screened individuals in a rural community in Nigeria for circulating dengue virus serotypes. Using a community based participatory approach, convenient sampling was employed to collect plasma from 17 febrile adults in Abia and Bendeghe wards within Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. The area is forested with heavy mosquito presence. RNA extraction was carried out with viral RNA mini kit (QIAamp, QIAGEN GmbH, Hilden, Germany). Molecular detection of DENV serotypes was by Polymerase Chain Reaction using characterized DENV isolates as standard controls. Out of 17 participants, 3 (17.6%) tested positive to DENV. Two were infected with DENV-2 and one with DENV-1. All three were men in Abia ward while no person tested positive to the virus in Bendeghe. This present study highlights co-circulation of DENV-1 which demonstrates a change in the epidemiology of dengue in the area. It reinforces the need for public health professionals in the area to be vigilant, and signals the possibility of an increase in Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever. Sustained entomological surveillance is recommended.

Keywords: Dengue, Cross River State, Molecular detection, Nigeria, Rain forest
Comparative anatomy of wild adult tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) testes during rainy and dry periods in Zaria, Nigeria
Authors: Muazu T.A. , Sulaiman M.H. , Hambolu J
Published: November 2020

The study was undertaken to investigate the effects of rainy and dry periods on the gross and histology of the testes of Oreochromis niloticus in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Twenty-four adult wild tilapia fish with average weight of 234.74±5.20 gm and 177.84±31.07 gm was used during rainy and dry periods, respectively. They measured a standard body length of 23.50±0.29 cm and 22.17±0.73 cm during rainy and dry periods, respectively. The fishes were sourced from Zaria dam and transported live in open plastic troughs containing clean water to the Gross Anatomy Laboratory in the Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. Each fish was euthanized using tricaine anaesthetic at 8 drops/litre of water. The testes were extracted, weighed and fixed in bouin’s fluid for 24hours. Each testis was then dehydrated through series of ascending concentrations of ethanol, cleared in xylene, embedded in paraffin wax and sectioned at 5µm. Hematoxylin (H) & Eosin (E) were used for histological evaluation. Grossly, the testes of O. niloticus were whitish, non-lobulated and well developed during both rainy and dry periods. Each testis had a smooth lateral and medial edge. Seminal vesicles and Bulbourethral glands were absent. The average weight of both testes shows insignificant variation across both periods (0.458). The Gonado-somatic index value was insignificantly higher during rainy period (0.159) compare to dry period. Histologically, the lumen of seminiferous lobules was filled with spermatozoa during both rainy and dry periods. The tunica albuginea and interstitial connective tissues were thin across both periods. In conclusion, Gross and histological results which coincide with the values of Gonado-somatic index revealed that wild adult tilapia fish spawns during both rainy and dry periods in Zaria, Nigeria.

Keywords: Gonado-somatic index, Testes, Seminiferous lobules, Spermatozoa, Wild Tilapia, Zaria dam
Conventional implicatures of the 2019 Presidential Tribunal: implications for the Nigerian leadership, media and users
Authors: Ugwu Emmanuel Chukwudi , Motanya Chukwuma Charles
Published: November 2020

Conventional implicature deals with non-truth conditional content of the expression in any given situation. Nigerians went into the general election in the year 2019, which various positions were contested and so many conditions that took place. Political parties were at the helm of the affairs doing what they know how best to do, through manifestos, campaign, propaganda and so on. Later, there was outcome of the presidential tribunal, especially among the first and topmost two contenders in the election and actual implicature transpired in the judgement. The implication lies at what the majority sees as a rape of democracy and the court ruling. Language of affidavit became awash on the social media. So many non-truth conditions were generated on the media after the ruling. To ascertain this implicature, this study applied the qualitative research by using purposive sampling technique in gathering the data and its analysis. The study reveals the social vices in this situation against dwindling areas in our leadership and how it affects those using the language.

Keywords: Conventional, Implicature, Language, Affidavit, leadership, Presidential, Social Media
Nollywood and the leaders of tomorrow: interrogating film content and character formation of the Nigerian child
Authors: Aniukwu Nkemakonam
Published: November 2020

The intellectual discourse on the influence of films in shaping a child’s ideological leaning is a topic that has generated interest in different parts of the world. The supposed proposition that inapt behaviours, nonchalant attitudes, moral decadence, and violence among children are outcome in most films produced in Nollywood Film Industry calls for serious examination. Hence, to examine the effects which film contents could have on educational development and character formation of a Nigerian child remains the aim of this study. Objectives include; to ascertain the potentials of films content in creating a standard for good leadership skills for the Nigerian child, and to advocate possible ways through which Nollywood movies can be produced to achieve all round development of the Nigerian child. The study through the adoption of observation, and content analysis approaches of qualitative research method, evaluated the influence of films on children. The study utilized George Gerbner’s Cultivation theory in examining the influence of film environments in child’s learning and leadership skill and found out that most Nollywood films have themes of Mischief, adult chauvinisms, hatred, demonic possessions, and violent politicking, among other social vices which pose serious threats to the child’s ideal leadership purview. The researcher therefore recommends, establishment of a film unit that should provide adequate censorship of children films. The unit should be empowered to sieve, dissect and scrutinize all children film contents in Nollywood Film Industry so as to make sure that the filmmakers produce films relevance to the academic and character formation needs of Nigerian children. Hence, children are the leaders of tomorrow.