bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 2L1S/1L2S Degeneracy for Two Microlensing Planet Candidates Discovered by the KMTNet Survey in 2017
Authors: Shin I.-G. , Yee J. C. , Gould A. , Penny M. T. , Bond I. A. , Albrow M. D. , Chung S.-J. , Han C. , Hwang K.-H. , Jung Y. K. , Ryu Y.-H. , Shvartzvald Y. , Cha S.-M. , Kim D.-J. , Kim H.-W. , Kim S.-L. , Lee C.-U. , Lee D.-J. , Lee Y. , Park B.-G. , Pogge R. W. ,   (KMTNet Collaboration), Abe F. , Barry R. , Bennett D. P. , Bhattacharya A. , Donachie M. , Fujii H. , Fukui A. , Hirao Y. , Itow Y. , Kamei Y. , Kondo Iona , Koshimoto N. , Li M. C. A. , Matsubara Y. , Miyazaki S. , Muraki Y. , Nagakane M. , Ranc C. , Rattenbury N. J. , Suematsu Harmon , Sullivan D. J. , Sumi T. , Suzuki Daisuke , Tristram P. J. , Yamakawa T. , Yonehara A. ,   (MOA Collaboration), Fouqué P. , Zang W. ,   (CFHT-K2C9 Microlensing Collaboration)
Published: October 2019

We report two microlensing planet candidates discovered by the Korea Microlensing Telescope Network (KMTNet) survey in 2017. However, both events have the 2L1S/1L2S degeneracy, which is an obstacle to claiming the discovery of the planets with certainty unless the degeneracy can be resolved. For KMT-2017-BLG-0962, the degeneracy cannot be resolved. If the 2L1S solution is correct, KMT-2017-BLG-0962 might be produced by a super Jupiter-mass planet orbiting a mid-M-dwarf host star. For KMT-2017-BLG-1119, the light-curve modeling favors the 2L1S solution but higher-resolution observations of the baseline object tend to support the 1L2S interpretation rather than the planetary interpretation. This degeneracy might be resolved by a future measurement of the lens-source relative proper motion. This study shows that the problem of resolving 2L1S/1L2S degeneracy exists over a much wider range of conditions than those considered by the theoretical study of Gaudi (1998).
Discovery of an Accretion-rate Independent Absolute RMS Amplitude of Millihertz Quasi-periodic Oscillations in 4U 1636-53
Authors: Lyu Ming , Méndez Mariano , Altamirano D. , Zhang Guobao , Mancuso G. C.
Published: October 2019

We investigate the frequency and amplitude of the millihertz quasi-periodic oscillations (mHz QPOs) in the neutron-star low-mass X-ray binary 4U 1636–53 using Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer observations. We find that no mHz QPOs appear when the source is in the hard spectral state. We also find that there is no significant correlation between the frequency and the fractional RMS amplitude of the mHz QPOs. Notwithstanding, for the first time, we find that the absolute rms amplitude of the mHz QPOs is insensitive to the parameter S

a
, which measures the position of the source in the color–color diagram and is usually assumed to be an increasing function of mass accretion rate. This finding indicates that the transition from marginally stable burning to stable burning or unstable burning could happen very rapidly since, before the transition, the mHz QPOs do not gradually decay as the rate further changes.
Granting Operating Permit Based Upon a Preemptive Risk Assessment
Authors: Manhaes Alexandre Campos , Neto Aloysio Garcia , Zanetti Alessandro Aparecido , Muller Daniel Tiago , Radespiel Eduardo dos Santos , Garcia Leonardo Marazzo
Published: October 2019

Dealing with well integrity non-compliances with respect to the principle of two well barrier envelopes is a problem of paramount importance in well integrity governance during the life cycle of wells. Besides, during production phase, operators might experience several difficulties related to the feasibility and conclusiveness of well integrity assessments, this is especially true for subsea wells. On the other hand, those assessments are quite conclusive and easy to perform by the rig when a workover is in progress. Namely, because there is usually only one fluid phase (brine) during pressure test and the feasibility of performing those tests in the actual flow direction, the well barrier elements evaluations performed by the workover rig are, in general, conclusive when compared to the verifications done by the production platform during production phase.

Thus, it is common to find out some unforeseen well integrity non-compliances with respect to the principle of two well barrier envelopes during a workover. Therefore the operator must establish a process for making up a decision concerning whether the handover process after the intervention back to the production team or downhole plugging the well whenever it is necessary, depending upon the well integrity status. This decision is based upon a preemptive (preventive and anticipative) risk assessment.

The use of a preemptive risk assessment leads to very interesting results, namely: a) standardization of decision making process avoiding subjectivities about well integrity statuses evaluation; b) savings on applying highly skilled technical human resources; c) mitigating environmental and compliance problems; and d) guidance on workover designers with better intervention planning practices concerning well integrity uncertainties.

This paper describes how it can be done as well as the regulations aspects related to it. Furthermore, it is shown case studies to illustrate the whole process of making up the right decision of handing the well over or downhole plugging whenever it is needed.
Flow Assurance Issues on Mexilhão Field Operation
Authors: Lorenzeti Canato Jorge Fernando , Da Silva Alves Christiano , Barbosa Marques Thales
Published: October 2019

This paper shows the main concerns related to Flow Assurance during Mexilhão gas field operation. Mexilhão is located in Santos Basin, Brazil and flows from seven gas wells to a fixed platform through a subsea manifold. Well’s water depth average is about 470 meters and platform’s water depth is 172 meters. The tieback between the manifold and platform is 22 kilometers and there are two production pipelines of 12-inch diameter connecting them.

The thermo-hydraulic profile of the production fluid enters in hydrate formation region and hydrate thermodynamic inhibitor (MEG) is injected to prevent hydrate formation. This MEG is recovered at the platform and it is reinjected in the wells. Dosing valves located at subsea manifold distributes the desirable quantity of MEG for each well. During eight years of operation, no production loss caused by hydrate blockage has been reported. This paper also shows the method of wax deposit management in Mexilhão subsea system. Although certain amount of wax had been anticipated to accumulate along pipeline, very little wax was found after pig runs. It has been observed that wax appears in platform process plant, however it does not seem to accumulate in the pipeline. Pig runs occur only for the purpose of corrosion monitoring.

Another item discussed here is scale prevention, which could be performed with downhole inhibitor injection and it has not been required until today. Finally, transient simulation results which guided the operational procedure to increase gas flow rate are shown. There is no slug catcher at the platform, then, in order to avoid shut downs due to large liquid slug arrival at process plant, the procedure to increase gas flow rate must be performed carefully.
Novel Solution for Cementing Operations in Scenarios of Losses and Improving Cement Bonding Results in the Brazilian Deepwater Pre-Salt
Authors: Freitas Rodrigo , Rossi Lucas , Pagani Leonardo , Gregatti Ana Carolina
Published: October 2019

Brazilian pre-salt reservoir is mainly composed of carbonate rocks which are naturally fractured and where severe loss of circulation has often occurred.

Loss of circulation during drilling or cementing is a serious issue that usually leads to nonproductive time, increase of well construction costs, and impairment of cement sheath quality, which may lead to deficient zonal isolation in the future and compromise well integrity in long term.

Data analysis from studies developed by operators around the world show that approximately 12% of all nonproductive time accumulated in a certain period is due to loss of circulation occurrence. In Brazil, an analysis performed by an operator in 2014, pointed that more than 100 days were lost in pre-salt wells in operations to cure or minimize loss of circulation. This same analysis concluded that more than 170 000 barrels of drilling fluid were consumed due to this scenario of losses. It is also important to emphasize the cases where a remedial cementing job was necessary due to failure of zonal isolation achievement through primary cementing, resulting in additional costs and nonproductive time.

Said that, it was important to develop and implement a new technology capable of mitigate losses during cementing operations and minimize the risk of a remedial cementing need. Since January 2017, Fibrous Loss Circulation Material has been used in the cementing jobs for production casings in the pre-salt wells successfully. Up to now, six wells were cemented using this technology; no remedial job necessary and the cementing logging evaluation showed excellent results.
A Detailed Examination of the Mechanics of Slip Crush When Landing Heavy Casing Strings
Authors: Thibodeaux Robert
Published: October 2019

Over the last 50 years, the oil & gas industry has continually pushed the limits of exploration, riding the wave of recent technological advances to pioneer ultra-deepwater areas of the globe. Not until the early 80s, though, did operators start delving below the salt canopy, into reserves like the Wilcox in the Gulf of Mexico. This sub-salt (or pre-salt) trend expanded well program depths in excess of 30,000 ft MD, in water depths exceeding 10,000 ft, necessitating longer, heavier casing/landing strings.

Meanwhile, new government regulations have begun mandating well designs capable of sustaining Worst Case Discharge (WCD). Deeper casing strings, in turn, must now be constructed to withstand higher collapse loads, shallow casing strings to handle more robust burst loads. Certain well designs must even feature an intermediate tieback able to endure WCD, where previously a nested liner was sufficient.

This confluence of increasingly deep wells and stringent regulations presents challenges. Longer, heavier casing/landing strings push the limits of existing tubular tensile capacity, but as important, they also raise concerns about handling equipment possibly crushing landing strings due to excessive radial load (slip crush).

In response, since the mid-80s, a research and testing program has been analyzing and quantifying specific factors involved when crushing loads affect tubular goods failure. Some of the identified causatives behind these increased tubular stresses are handling equipment design, vessel heave-induced dynamic loading, dynamic loading during tripping, and handling equipment-related slip crush loading. A detailed analysis of the mechanics of slip crush revealed modifying certain parameters has a material effect on the radial load imparted onto the pipe by the slips. The research shows that modifying and optimizing the combination of these parameters can not only lead to the design of handling equipment with higher slip crush capacities, but it also leads to the development of a comprehensive model that can more accurately predict the failure of tubular goods due to slip crush.
Mechanically Lined Pipe MLP with Improved Fatigue Resistance
Authors: Popescu Silviu , Montague Paul Anthony
Published: October 2019

Mechanically lined pipe (MLP) has been successfully used in many applications where the fatigue load is low. The use of mechanically lined pipe in higher fatigue load applications require proof of fatigue strength and therefore, additional testing, including full scale fatigue testing, are typically performed. Petrobras has been a pioneer in this work and has developed an MLP specification designating in detail the qualification conditions for using MLP pipe in dynamic applications (see [1]).

This paper describes the qualification of Cladtek MLP for dynamic applications including the results of full-scale fatigue testing and a concept, designed by Cladtek, intended to further improve fatigue performance of MLP. Cladtek has filed a patent application for this concept named: Upset-end MLP with improved fatigue resistance [3].

This document presents full-scale fatigue testing results higher than experimental data previously available but in line with the results presented by Subsea 7 in the document IBP1137_15 (see [4]). These results demonstrate that improved fabrication techniques could lead to the use of MLP in the applications with high fatigue demand where, up to now, only clad pipes were considered suitable for use. The use of MLP in high fatigue load applications results in substantial cost savings.
Low Impact Drilling Fluid for Deepwater Drilling Frontier
Authors: Kakadjian Erna , Shi April , Porter Justin , Yadav Prahlad , Clapper Dennis , Pessanha Wallan
Published: October 2019

One of the biggest challenges when drilling in deep water is the excessive dependence of drilling fluid rheological properties on temperature. Conventional drilling fluids often have high viscosity at the seabed temperature, which increases the Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD) and surge pressures when running pipe or initiating circulation, elevating the risk of fracturing the wellbore. This paper describes the development of a drilling fluid for deep-water applications, with minimum viscosity variation with temperature.

Multiple laboratory formulations were evaluated during the development of the new, non-aqueous based drilling fluid that meets deep-water's challenging rheological and barite suspension requirements. CaCl2 brine was used as the internal emulsion phase, and synthetic isomerized olefin as the base oil. The testing followed the API Recommended Practice for Field Testing Oil-based Drilling Fluids. Samples were aged at dynamic conditions for 16 hours at several temperatures. Then, rheological properties and high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) fluid loss, emulsion stability, and dynamic sagging were tested. Static sag experiments were also carried out for up to seven days together with improved step down rheology tests.

A low-impact, non-aqueous drilling fluid (LIDF) was designed to minimize ECD increases by reducing the effect of cold temperature on the fluid viscosity. The fluid offers a superior low viscosity profile and rapid-set, easy-break gel strengths, while maintaining low shear rate viscosity at high temperatures with optimal weight material suspension. The fluid is also compatible with all contaminants usually found during the drilling operation and meets all the regulatory requirements for the Gulf of Mexico and other deep-water operational areas. Field application demonstrated that LIDF reduced the effect of temperature on the fluid rheological properties and minimized the risk of induced formation losses. These same rheological features reduced non-productive time associated with cement displacement and barite sagging.

Supporting laboratory and field data are presented to demonstrate the superior performance of the fluid in maintaining rheological and barite suspension properties over a wide range of temperatures. The properties of the LIDF are achieved by matching the effects of emulsifier, organophilic clay, and rheological modifiers to maintain correct rheological properties at low and high temperatures.
Flexible Riser Repair and Dissection Following Exceedance of API Fatigue Limit
Authors: Tapias Renan , Mansour-Tehrani Mehrdad , K. Langhelle Nina
Published: October 2019

This paper presents detailed learnings into the dissection of a flexible riser section, which had been operating for seven (7) years and subjected to high rates of fatigue damage, after operational field changes.

Detailed global and local fatigue analyses were performed to assess the response of the riser system taking into account significant changes between the design and the operational history. These environmental and operational changes were shown to have a negative impact on the fatigue performance of the risers, in particular the top section located inside the bend stiffner.

Fatigue analyses are performed using field measured data such as vessel headings, internal pressures and environmental conditions, aiming to replicate the riser response history and calculate fatigue usage to date. Actual field data are shown to be more onerous than design data and therefore a detrimental fatigue response is expected. Results from detailed fatigue analysis shows that flexible risers fatigue usage were above the maximum allowable of 0.1, as outlined in API [1,2]. The most critical location was the pressure armour wires of the top section, located inside the bend stiffener. A mitigation plan was proposed, including an immediate reduction of internal pressure to reduce the risk of riser failure, and the removal of the fatigued riser top section. After removal of the fatigue critical section, the riser was re-terminated and its fatigue performance reinstated.

The pipe section removed from operation was carefully dissected. Following the dissection, each riser layer was investigated to determine possible signs of degradation. Additionally, fatigue testing of both pressure and tensile armour wires were performed to determine potential fatigue degradation and confirm analyses findings. Dissection and fatigue tests have demonstrated that the pipe condition was better than expected, highlighting conservatisms in design and analyses methodologies.

In-service inspection of flexible riser internal layers is highly complex, with no detailed insight of all the respective layers. Dissection of a flexible riser, in service for seven (7) years and exposed to high rates of fatigue damage, provides valuable information about the state of the different layers comprising the cross section. This is particularly useful since analytical work have shown the riser to have exceeded the fatigue limit of 0.1 as defined per API. The good state of the flexible riser, on the contrary to the prediction, highlights a good level of conservatism in flexible riser design and methodology.
Structural Analysis of Thermal Behavior On Cooling Trapped Annular Pressure In Water and Gas Injection Wells
Authors: Junior Nelson Moreira , Agostini Cristiano Eduardo , Dos Santos Cleidilson Moura , Roman Roger Savoldi , Schnitzler Eduardo , Magalhães Mateus Dias , Ferreira Marcus Vinicius Duarte , De Souza Charlton Okama
Published: October 2019

This paper presents the findings of a comprehensive structural analysis in which the influence of thermal transient pressure behavior on the trapped annuli in an injection well in a Brazilian pre-salt field was assessed, mainly motivated by physical evidence of a well failure. The study focus on a transient heat flow in radial direction during a well failure investigation, and its impact in tubular design safety factor under a given casing design methodology.

During the investigation of this well integrity failure, a thermal analysis was performed considering the well construction history, but standard simulations using a world-class commercial software was not enough to explain the failure. Thus, a modified thermal analysis for casing and tubing was made in order to evaluate the design safety factor during each operation. This modified thermal analysis consists in splitting each operation in short time steps, in order to capture the short transient behavior. It was found that, during short transient time, the collapse stresses reached higher values than predicted in the previous standard steady-state modeling. Such result is basically related to the transient effect caused by radial heat flow.

Based on theoretical studies and comparing them to downhole P&T sensors in confined annuli, a correlation was stablished and showed the importance of this type of analysis. In certain scenarios, where the confined annuli are subjected to progressive and non-proportional cooling down effect between the casing layers, a sudden pressure drop may occur in the internal side of the casing, without reaching the same pressure drop on the external side, which can lead to a dramatic external differential pressure for a given string.

In wells with multiple confined annuli, such as in ultra-deepwater projects, this type of analysis represents a greater challenge. The results obtained so far have shown that the permanent and transient radial heat flow cannot be neglected in some scenarios and, therefore, open a new frontier for well design, especially when the tubing and multiple casing trapped annuli are subjected to rapid transient cool down.
Setting a New Benchmark in ROP and Bit Durability in the Pre-Salt Section Carbonate Rocks of the Deepwater Mero Field in Brazil
Authors: Silva Nalon , Boulton Arturo Jose
Published: October 2019

This work explains the process of how a bit was designed specifically to address drilling challenges of the reservoir section of the Mero Field offshore Brazil. The performance of this new bit is compared to previous bits used in the field.

A systematic process to design and evaluate the performance of a new bit involves interaction with the operator to understand the challenges and gather information, evaluate previous bit performances, use software to simulate the new bit design based on drilling conditions in the field, manufacture the bit according to design specifications, run the bit according to planned parameters, capture and report results, and evaluate results to identify possible improvements.

The reservoir section has a high hardness and is primarily composed of calcareous rock and silica intercalations. Since the discovery of the Mero Field, more than 17 wells have been drilled by different companies. In the majority of the wells, the reservoir section was drilled using impregnated bits and turbines. As a result, the application of a systematic process was used to solve operator challenges where a new bit was designed and run in the field to drill the reservoir section of two wells. A comparison was performed between the previous bits used in the field and the new bit concept, certifying that the new bit reduced the reservoir section drilling time by 59%.

This work discusses improved drilling efficiency in the reservoir section by drilling with a new bit design in a field where only impregnated bits and turbines were used. This created a new benchmark for drilling performance in the Mero Field.
On the Development of Technology Governance in the Well Area
Authors: Leite Julio Cesar Costa , Lopes Manoela Teixeira
Published: October 2019

The present paper describes the establishment and implementation of the technology governance in the well area at Petrobras, which includes R&D, qualification and homologation projects. Corporate standards delineated the technology governance to assure uniformity and impersonality. It comprises two main processes: (i) establishment of technical specifications; (ii) technology evaluation. The former includes the elaboration/review of technical specifications focused on functional, quality and reliability aspects and clearly defined normative requirements. The latter process begins with the presentation of the technology by the potential suppliers and evaluation of interest by the project areas. Subsequently, in accordance with the readiness level assigned to the technology, it may be allocated as a R&D, qualification or homologat ion project, addressing to the appropriate treatment and assuring celerity for the necessary analysis.

To operationalize the whole process, Petrobras created a department in well area responsible for structuring and leading processes related to the admission of new technologies to the company, linked with the already well established R&D process. Deliberative forums have been held with managers of all the technical areas involved allowing collegial decision. Prioritized projects have been conducted by multidisciplinary working groups, including representatives from project and operation team, contract department, and also well experts. All technology process deliveries are reported by means of standard documents and are recorded in corporate system ensuring traceability and technical memory preservation. Nowadays, all the processes are well established and running for over 2 years with good feedback from stakeholders. It is worth mentioning the improvements in communication flow between and within departments and teams, better definition of roles and responsibilities reducing interface issues and easy availability of information that may be accessed for all parties involved with the projects. Additionally, there is a continuous improvement for system solutions assuring input, maintain, control and consult the whole information shared throughout the process.

The method adopted based on technology readiness level for new equipment/material/service assessment is aligned to good practices from other segments, such as aerospace industry. Moreover, technical specification focused on functional, quality and reliability requirements and system solutions for quick information availability complies with IOGP recommendations, ISO standards and with an increasingly restrictive regulation scenario especially after the lessons learned post-Macondo.
Efforts and Experiences, Developing Deepwater Projects in Brazil
Authors: Melo Toneto de Ricardo , Valença J G M Claudio
Published: October 2019

Petrobras, as the largest operator in ultra-deep waters in South America, has been using a field development concept that has proved to be winner since 2010. This concept is well suited for fields with high productivity wells, which produce more than 20,000 barrels of oil per day. In the market, this concept is known as "satellite wells".

In this scenario, Petrobras has benefited from its strategy of standardizing subsea equipment, including Wet Christmas Trees (WCT), Flexible Pipes, Umbilicals and Subsea Manifolds. However, since the downturn of 2014, Petrobras has been struggling to simplify its own specifications, looking for the most attractive CAPEX solutions in the market, allowing suppliers to use their own knowledge and experiences to propose low cost solutions, meeting projects requirements.

From 2015 onwards, Petrobras has been working with the suppliers, with the Early Engagement initiative, aiming that the integration synergies, existing assets and the experience of these suppliers, could bring to the projects, the benefits of CAPEX reduction, and allowing the advancement and approval of these projects internally in the company.

Technological development programs to allow the use of flexible pipes that are resistant to contaminants such as CO2 and H2S, new CRA materials to be applied to rigid flowlines and low-cost riser configurations, have been pursued by Petrobras in order to enable the implementation of ultra-deep water projects.
The ABC Helicopter
Authors: Cheney M. C.
Published: October 2019

Presented is an introduction to the basic principles of the Advancing Blade Concept (ABC) rotor and a review of the related experimental and analytical research conducted in support of the Sikorsky ABC helicopter program. The ABC helicopter is comprised of two coaxial, counter‐rotating
rotors having blades rigidly attached to the hub except for feathering freedom. The blades are significantly stiffer than conventional rotor Blades and are capable of supporting large moments without excessive tip deflections. Improved forward flight efficiency and the elimination of retreating
blade stall results from the ability of the ABC rotor to utilize to a large extent the lifting potential of the advancing blades—a capability not present in conventional single rotors. Results of various small‐scale wind tunnel experiments are presented along with summaries of
several analytical investigations which were conducted to provide information concerning rotor performance, blade dynamics, vibration, and stability and control
In‐Flight Far‐Field Measurement of Helicopter Impulsive Noise
Authors: Schmitz F. H. , Boxwell D. A.
Published: October 2019

A new and highly successful method of collecting far‐field acoustic data radiated by helicopters in forward flight has been developed, utilizing a quiet aircraft flying in formation ahead of the subject helicopter. The lead aircraft, flown as an acoustic probe, was equipped with
tape‐recording equipment and an external microphone. Spatial orientation of the helicopter with respect to the monitoring aircraft was achieved through visual flight reference. Far‐field acoustic data defining the impulsive noise radiation characteristics of the UH‐1H
helicopter during high‐speed flight and partial ‐power descents have been gathered with this technique. Three distinct types of impulsive waveforms have been identified and correlated with helicopter steady operating conditions.
Marine and freshwater taxa: some numerical trends
Authors: Tsalolikhin Semyon Ya. , Zullini Aldo
Published: October 2019

Most of the freshwater fauna originates from ancient or recent marine ancestors. In this study, we considered only completely aquatic non-parasitic animals, counting 25 phyla, 77 classes, 363 orders for a total that should include 236,070 species. We divided these taxa into three categories: exclusively marine, marine and freshwater, and exclusively freshwater. By doing so, we obtained three distribution curves which could reflect the marine species’ mode of invasion into continental waters. The lack of planktonic stages in the benthic fauna of inland waters, in addition to what we know about the effects of the impoundment of epicontinental seas following marine regressions, lead us to think that the main invasion mode into inland waters is more linked to the sea level fluctuations of the past than to slow and “voluntary” ascents of rivers by marine elements.
Infliximab in the treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome in Behçet’s disease
Authors: Santos L.B. , Rigueira J. , Vilas A.P.
Published: October 2019

Behçet’s disease is a chronic autoinflammatory disorder that usually presents with recurrent oral and genital ulcers, uveitis, skin lesions and arthritis. Any organ, however, can be involved and in a subgroup of patients the large vascular lesions are the predominant feature (vasculo-Behçet disease). We report a case of a 27-yearold man with Behçet’s disease who developed Budd-Chiari syndrome while on immunosuppressive therapy. Infliximab resulted in a rapid and total clinical remission. Literature data have shown that antitumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF-α) agents including infliximab can suppress disease activity but there is no long-term experience on tapering and/or discontinuation of treatment under clinical remission. Our case supports the use of infliximab in vasculo-Behçet patients.
On the Enhancement of Classification Algorithms Using Biased Samples
Authors: Al-mamory Safaa O.
Published: October 2019

Classification algorithms' performance could be enhanced by selecting many representative points to be included in the training sample. In this paper, a new border and rare biased sampling (BRBS) scheme is proposed by assigning each point in the dataset an importance factor. The importance factor of border points and rare points (i.e. points belong to rare classes) is higher than other points. Then the points are selected to be in the training sample depending on these factors. Including these points in the training sample enhances classifiers experience. The results of experiments on 10 UCI machine learning repository datasets prove that the BRBS algorithm outperforms many sampling algorithms and enhanced the performance of several classification algorithms by about 8%. BRBS is proposed to be easy to configure, covering all points space, and generate a unique samples every time it is executed.
A produção acadêmico-científica sobre jogos eletrônicos em periódicos da área de Educação Física no Brasil
Authors: Borsato Matheus , Brasil Marcos Roberto , Oliveira Vinicius Machado de , Mattes Verônica Volski , Souza Juliano De
Published: October 2019

Dada a recente notoriedade que os estudos dos jogos eletrônicos vêm adquirindo no campo acadêmico, a presente investigação teve como objetivo mapear a produção científica sobre a temática em tela na área da Educação Física. Para atender a tal premissa, localizamos em revistas científicas da área 41 textos que versavam sobre o tema. Por meio de análise descritiva, em consonância com a mobilização do referencial sociológico de Pierre Bourdieu, verificamos que as Revistas Licere e Motrivivência são os principais veículos de divulgação da temática investigada. Face a essa conformação, constatamos também a centralidade da Universidade Federal do Paraná e da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina como alguns dos principais polos de produção de estudos associados aos jogos eletrônicos no campo da Educação Física no Brasil. Mediante esses dados, concluímos que as redes de relações acadêmicas constituem posições sociais de um campo de investigação, movido e influenciado por um habitus científico.
Política de esporte universitário em uma instituição pública de ensino superior de Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Souza Laura Cecília de Leite , Moraes e Silva Marcelo , Silva Junior Vagner Pereira da
Published: October 2019

Objetivou-se avaliar a política de esporte de uma Universidade Pública de Mato Grosso do Sul, através de uma pesquisa quali-quantitativa, descritiva-exploratória e documental. Foram analisados, documentos e editais de fomento de bolsas. Apenas um projeto foi desenvolvido entre o período de 2013 a 2016, atendendo, 237 pessoas semanalmente. Ofereceu 15 modalidades, ministradas por acadêmicos de 12 cursos diferentes. Conclui-se que a universidade analisada apresenta contrastes na política de esporte desenvolvida, pois se por um lado dispõe de coordenadoria específica e de um rol considerável de práticas esportivas, por outro a proposta mostra-se limitada nos horários de atendimento e apresenta problemas em relação aos responsáveis pela regência das aulas.
Two-dimensional mineral dust radiative effect calculations from CALIPSO observations over Europe
Authors: Granados-Muñoz Maria José , Sicard Michaël , Papagiannopoulos Nikolaos , Barragán Rubén , Bravo-Aranda Juan Antonio , Nicolae Doina
Published: October 2019

Abstract. A demonstration study to examine the feasibility of retrieving dust
radiative effects based on combined satellite data from MODIS (Moderate
Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), CERES (Clouds and the Earth's Radiant
Energy System) and CALIOP (Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization)
lidar vertical profiles along their orbit is presented. The GAME (Global Atmospheric Model) radiative
transfer model is used to estimate the
shortwave and longwave dust radiative effects below the CALIPSO
(Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite) orbit assuming an
aerosol parameterization based on the CALIOP vertical distribution at a
horizontal resolution of 5 km and additional AERONET (Aerosol Robotic
Network) data. Two study cases are analyzed: a strong long-range transport
mineral dust event (aerosol optical depth, AOD, of 0.52) that originated in the
Sahara Desert and reached the United Kingdom and a weaker event (AOD = 0.16) that affected eastern Europe. The radiative fluxes obtained are first validated in terms of radiative efficiency at a single point with
space–time colocated lidar ground-based measurements from EARLINET
(European Aerosol Research Lidar Network) stations below the orbit. The
methodology is then applied to the full orbit. The strong dependence of the
radiative effects on the aerosol load (and to a lesser extent on the surface
albedo) highlights the need for accurate AOD measurements for radiative
studies. The calculated dust radiative effects and heating rates below the
orbits are in good agreement with previous studies of mineral dust, with the
radiative efficiency obtained at the surface ranging between −80.3 and −63.0 W m−2 for lower dust concentration event
and −119.1 and −79.3 W m−2 for the strong
event. Thus, results demonstrate the validity of the method presented here to
retrieve 2-D accurate radiative properties with large spatial and temporal
coverage.
Role of black carbon mass size distribution in the direct aerosol radiative forcing
Authors: Zhao Gang , Tao Jiangchuan , Kuang Ye , Shen Chuanyang , Yu Yingli , Zhao Chunsheng
Published: October 2019

Abstract. Large uncertainties exist when estimating radiative effects of ambient black
carbon (BC) aerosol. Previous studies about the BC aerosol radiative forcing
mainly focus on the BC aerosols' mass concentrations and mixing states,
while the effects of BC mass size distribution (BCMSD) were not well
considered. In this paper, we developed a method of measuring the BCMSD by
using a differential mobility analyzer in tandem with an Aethalometer. A
comprehensive method of multiple charging corrections was proposed and
implemented in measuring the BCMSD. Good agreement was obtained between the
BC mass concentration integrated from this system and that measured in the bulk
phase, demonstrating the reliability of our proposed method. Characteristics
of the BCMSD and corresponding radiative effects were studied based on a field
measurement campaign conducted in the North China Plain by using our own
measurement system. Results showed that the BCMSD had two modes and the mean
peak diameters of the modes were 150 and 503 nm. The
BCMSD of the coarser mode varied significantly under different pollution
conditions with peak diameter varying between 430 and 580 nm, which gave
rise to significant variation in aerosol bulk optical properties. The
direct aerosol radiative forcing was estimated to vary by 8.45 %
for different measured BCMSDs of the coarser mode, which shared the same
magnitude with the variation associated with assuming different aerosol mixing
states (10.5 %). Our study reveals that the BCMSD as well as its
mixing state in estimating the direct aerosol radiative forcing matters. Knowledge
of the BCMSD should be fully considered in climate models.
Orçamento Público e a Curva de Laffer Ampliada: Uma Abordagem a partir dos Multiplicadores Ficais
Authors: Salomão Benito Adelmo , Silva Guilherme Jonas Costa
Published: October 2019

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo apresentar uma contribuição teórica pioneira a discussão sobre as finanças públicas, que é uma proposta de maximização das receitas e redução do déficit público, a partir de uma política fiscal eficiente de provimento de serviços de qualidade públicos e indução do investimento privado para a promoção do crescimento do produto, ampliando desta forma o bem estar social. Para tanto, parte-se da Curva de Laffer e acrescentam-se novos elementos ao debate dos multiplicadores fiscais, para demonstrar de forma inédita que a política de investimentos públicos pode ter um impacto desejável sobre a arrecadação, o déficit público e o crescimento econômico.
O papel do tradutor-intérprete de libras em sala de aula inclusiva
Authors: Storto Letícia Jovelina , Menezes Deisiane Neves , Matias Leila Cristina , Morais Margarete Cristina , Monteiro Solange De Souza
Published: October 2019

Este trabalho tem como objetivo principal pesquisar sobre o papel do tradutor-intérprete de Libras em sala de aula inclusiva. Para tanto, foram realizadas pesquisas bibliográfica e de campo, utilizando-se um questionário como instrumento de coleta de dados. O questionário foi elaborado para que se obtivessem informações sobre aspectos da formação e da atuação desses profissionais, que têm se tornado cada vez mais necessários em tempos de inclusão. A pesquisa revelou que, do ponto de vista dos entrevistados, o ensino regular tem sido benéfico aos surdos, proporcionando-lhes melhores condições de aprendizagem e desenvolvimento, embora alguns professores e agentes de educação ainda não estejam preparados para receber esses alunos de forma adequada, em turmas regulares da educação básica.
Prospecção tecnológica para a comunicação imediata entre surdos e ouvintes
Authors: Silva Joelson Conceição da , Hora Henrique Rego da , Carvalho Rogério Atem de
Published: October 2019

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar os resultados de uma pesquisa sobre os depósitos de patentes de dispositivos que permitem a comunicação instantânea entre surdos e ouvintes e de produção acadêmica sobre esse tema. Para isso foram utilizadas as bases de depósito de patentes do INPI e o sistema Questel Orbit®. A mesma estratégia de pesquisa foi aplicada ao Scopus na busca de trabalhos e artigos publicados sobre tais tecnologias. Os depósitos de patentes de invenções foram encontrados a partir das palavras-chave: “comunicação imediata” e “surdos” no Questel Orbit®, a maioria depositada por empresas de comunicação ou Institutos de Tecnologia. Nos Estados Unidos da América do Norte e na China muito vem sendo produzido sobre o tema, diferente do que ocorre no Brasil. A falta de investimento em P&D e em estudos de melhoria no que já existe, tem favorecido a dependência do Brasil em tecnologia estrangeira nessa área.
Fiscal Decentralization and Economic Growth in Thailand: A Cross-Region Analysis
Authors: Nantharath Phouthakannha , Laochankham Sirisak , Kamnuasilpa Peerasit , Kang Eungoo
Published: October 2019

Prior to the 1997 decentralization, over 90% of national revenue in Thailand were held at the central government and less than 10% of public expenditure were allocated to local governments across country. Lack of adequate revenue and access to sufficient expenditure budget has caused disparity and ineffectiveness of public services and economic development at the local level. This study examines the effects of the fiscal decentralization on the economic growth in Thailand from 2004 to 2017. The research methodology uses a cross panel data analysis across five provincial regions and considers revenue decentralization, expenditure decentralization, transfer dependency, and vertical fiscal imbalance as influential factors of growth. By applying Panel Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS) and Panel Dynamic Least Squares (DOLS) regression approaches, the study finds empirical evidence of positive effects of revenue decentralization, transfer dependency, and vertical fiscal imbalance on regional economic growth across five regions. However, this study also finds that expenditure decentralization has a negative impact on regional economic growth, but level of significance is weak. These findings suggest that the rapid increase in metropolis government expenditure budget following the years of political transition in 2006 and 2014 has caused stagnation in public investment at local level across country, thereby resulted in a lagged behind industrial output and gross provincial product. Lack of budget expenditures also weakens demand and stagnates growth in manufacturing, construction, and real estate activities, thereby rendering fiscal imbalances and development gaps in Thai economy.
Investigation and Analysis of Vocational Training and Professional Identity of Biology Teachers in Southern Henan
Authors: Peng Bo , Xu Xiaojie , Zheng Nongyi , Peng Feng , Sun Xuezhong , Tian Xiayu , He Lulu , Yang Zhuanqing , Sun Yanfang , Pang Ruihua , Li Jintao , Wang Quanxiu , Zhou Wei , Yuan Hongyu
Published: October 2019

In order to effectively investigate the current professional status of biology special post teachers in the southern of Henan Province (Southern Henan), this study used the method of interviews and questionnaires to investigate and analyze the current situation of biology special post teachers in Southern Henan from the aspects of vocational training and professional identity. The results showed that: (1) Satisfaction with vocational training is still acceptable, all of them can participate in certain training, but the training policy and system need to be improved, the level of training is limited, the training opportunities are not balanced, and the training time and content need to be optimized. (2) Career identity is generally satisfactory, proud, respected and enthusiastic in teaching. It can promote the growth and development of students, but the suggestions of special post teachers have not been adopted in time. In view of the above findings, this paper puts forward some countermeasures for the professional development of biology special post teachers in Southern Henan, in order to provide theoretical basis for the follow-up study on the professional aspects of biology special post teachers, and also provide important information for the professional development of rural special post teachers.
Common Core and the Continued Socioeconomic Achievement Gap: How Can We Better Prepare Future Teachers?
Authors: Davis Lauren Dotson
Published: October 2019

This paper discusses a longitudinal study of North Carolina middle level student proficiency levels on standardized assessments since the shift to the Common Core curriculum. Student poverty and its impact on student achievement the focus of this paper, and this study analyzes long-term proficiency trends and while delving into inequity implications regarding socioeconomic status. Recognizing the impact of poverty on student achievement as measured by standardized tests, the author questions the explicit practices of teacher preparation programs in preparing teacher candidates to work with students of poverty, specifically pertaining to the middle level student.
The Association between Functional Polymorphisms of COX-2 and Serum PGE2 Level in ESCC Patients in North of Iran
Authors: Sheshpoli Maryam Sadegh , Khajeniazie Safoura , Khoshnia Masoud , Behnampour Nasser , Saeedi Mohsen , Moradi Abdolvahab
Published: October 2019

Background: Esophageal cancer is recognized as one of the most fatal diseases around the world. Many factors are involved in the development of esophageal cancer, including genetic factors and inflammation. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and its downstream signaling are the most important proinflammatory factors contributing to cancer. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the polymorphisms and expression of COX-2 and prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) level in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in Golestan Province (Iran), situated on the “esophageal cancer belt”.

Methods: In this case-control study, blood and biopsy samples were obtained from ESCC patients and healthy controls. The COX-2 polymorphisms for -1195, -1290, -765, and +8473 SNPs were assayed using PCR-RFLP assay, while the level of PGE2 was measured using an ELISA kit. In addition, real-time PCR assay and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to assay mRNA and protein expression of COX-2, respectively.

Results: An association was found between 8473TC genotype and risk of ESCC (OR= 5.417, P= 0.036). In addition, mRNA and protein expression of COX-2 in ESCC patients was higher than the controls (P=0.001 and P=0.048, respectively). Based on the findings, the level of PGE-2 was significantly higher in ESCC patients, compared to the controls (P= 0.045). However, ROC curve analysis revealed PGE2 is a weak biomarker for diagnosis of ESCC. There was a significant relationship between the level of PGE2 and 8473CC, 8473TC, -765CC, and -1290AA genotypes (P= 0.028, P= 0.022, P= 0.024, and P= 0.011, respectively).

Conclusion: Based on our results, functional polymorphisms of COX-2 (8473CC, 8473TC, - 765CC, and -1290AA) increase PGE2 level and carriers of these polymorphisms might be more susceptible to ESCC.