bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Triplication of 6q24 and Meconium Pseudocyst: A Case Report
Authors: Mooney Meagan , Carlson Cheryl A. , Riley Cheryl
Published: November 2019

With the rise in genetic screening both pre- and postnatally, new variances in genes are being recognized. Some are of unknown significance, while other known genetic expressions have obvious phenotypical expressions. Transient neonatal diabetes mellitus is a result of the duplication of chromosome 6q24, but little is known about the phenotypic expression of a triplication of chromosome 6q24. This case study presents an infant with a postnatally diagnosed triplication of chromosome 6q24, meconium pseudocyst, and multiple congenital anomalies with unknown genetic significance.
Oral Feeding in Preterm Infants: A Conceptual Model for Health Care Practitioners
Authors: Fucile Sandra , Caulfield Anna , Geleynse Sarah
Published: November 2019

Oral feeding competence is a critical milestone needed for proper growth and development in preterm infants. Commonly, the oral feeding process is conceptualized as an infant's ability to coordinate suck–swallow–breathe. However, oral feeding is a highly complex multisystem process. In this article, an oral feeding model is presented that takes into consideration the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence oral feeding performances. The intrinsic neurophysiologic factors include the musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, behavioral, and neurologic systems. The extrinsic environmental factors include the physical surroundings, NICU policies, parental attributes, health care practitioners, and feeding equipment. The objectives of this article are to (1) describe the intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting oral feeding performance of preterm infants in the NICU, (2) introduce a conceptual model of oral feeding that displays the relationship between these factors, and (3) provide a reference guide for health care practitioners to refer to when evaluating an infant's oral feeding performance.
NÚMERO COMPLETO
Authors: Lingüística Hispánica Cuadernos
Published: November 2019

NÚMERO COMPLETO
Los ambientes de aprendizaje reales como estrategia pedagógica para el desarrollo de competencias matemáticas en estudiantes de básica secundaria
Authors: Alvis-Puentes Johnny Fernando , Aldana-Bermúdez Eliécer , Caicedo-Zambrano Segundo Javier
Published: November 2019

El propósito del artículo se centra en analizar las actuaciones de los estudiantes cuando se enfrentan a la resolución de un ambiente de aprendizaje desde escenarios de investigación reales, para el desarrollo de competencias matemáticas desde la educación matemática crítica. La investigación se desarrolló bajo un estudio cualitativo, con un corte comprensivo, donde la población la componen estudiantes del grado noveno de una Institución Educativa colombiana. El ambiente de aprendizaje se relaciona con el servicio público de acueducto, alcantarillado y aseo del municipio de Campoalegre, Huila, el cual permite establecer una reflexión aproximada a la manera en que las matemáticas operan como parte de la sociedad, contribuyendo a la consolidación de un estudiante crítico y reflexivo. Se concluye cómo los ambientes de aprendizaje permiten articular didácticamente el desarrollo de competencias matemáticas en el aula de clase, desde situaciones reales del contexto de los estudiantes, potenciando una ciudadanía crítica frente a la realidad descrita en el ambiente de aprendizaje. Estas situaciones develan cómo la experiencia y el trabajo colaborativo, se entrelazan para asumir juicios que se tejen desde las subjetividades de la sociedad en la cual se encuentran inmersos los estudiantes.
Karasal İklim Kuşağında Yer Alan İki Farklı Yükseltideki Doğal Meraların Vejetasyon Yapısı
Authors: KARAMAN Ferhat , TURAN Nizamettin
Published: November 2019

Bu çalışma; Türkiye’nin Güneydoğu Anadolu Bölgesi’nde yer alan doğal bir meranın farklı yükseltilerinin vejetasyon yapısını belirlemek amacıyla 2018 yılında yürütülmüştür. Modifiye Edilmiş Tekerlekli Lup (halka) metodu kullanılarak yapılan bu çalışma ile iki farklı yükseltideki (sırasıyla 863 m ve 1083 m) meranın bitki örtüsü ve vejetasyon yapısı incelenmiştir. Çalışma alanında bitkiyle kaplı alan, botanik kompozisyon, tür sayıları, mera durumu ve sağlığı gibi özellikler tespit edilmiştir. Araştırma sonucuna göre; birinci yükseltide (863 m) ortalama bitki ile kaplı alan % 63, ikinci yükseltide (1083 m) ise % 59 olarak belirlenmiştir. Birinci yükseltide bitki ile kaplı alanda buğdaygillerin, baklagillerin ve diğer familyaların oranı sırasıyla % 19.5, % 17.25 ve % 26.25 olarak belirlenirken, ikinci yükseltide bu oran sırasıyla % 15.0, % 14.75 ve % 29.25 olarak gerçekleşmiştir. Bitki ile kaplı alanda botanik kompozisyondaki buğdaygillerin ortalama oranı % 28.06, baklagillerin oranı % 26.08 ve diğer familyalara ait bitkilerin oranı ise % 45.86 olarak saptanmıştır. Meranın botanik kompozisyonu üzerinde yapılan incelemelere göre mera durumu “zayıf mera”, mera sağlığı ise “riskli mera” sınıfında değerlendirilmiştir. Bu nedenle çalışmaya konu olan mera alanları ile bölgede bulunan diğer benzer alanlarda mera amenajman ilkelerine uyulması ve ıslah çalışmalarının yapılması gerektiği sonucuna varılmıştır.
Análisis de la publicidad institucional sobre el sida del Gobierno de España desde la era socialista de Zapatero a la popular de Mariano Rajoy = Analysis of the institutional advertising on AIDS of the Government of Spain from the socialist era of Zapatero to the conservative of Mariano Rajoy
Authors: López Villafranca Paloma
Published: November 2019

Resumen: Introducción: En el presente estudio realizamos un análisis sobre las campañas de VIH-sida que ha realizado el Ministerio de Sanidad España desde la era socialista, año 2005-2011, a la etapa del Partido Popular, 20112017. Objetivos: Comparar la inversión en materia de publicidad institucional a lo largo de más de una década y los mensajes lanzados para informar y prevenir sobre el virus de inmunodeficiencia humana por los ejecutivos del Partido Popular y del Partido Socialista Obrero Español (PSOE). Metodología: Análisis de contenido de las campañas realizadas en el periodo señalado, centrándonos en el presupuesto asignado, análisis de la pieza central de la campaña, así como en otras variables como medios y soportes empleados, la pertenencia a un plan de comunicación, público objetivo, duración y repercusión en la sociedad. Resultados: Apreciamos además del descenso en la inversión, un cambio en el enfoque de las campañas según la línea ideológica del ejecutivo y una evolución en los soportes con la incorporación de redes sociales y otras tecnologías. Conclusiones: Las mayores inversiones en publicidad institucional destinadas a la prevención del virus se producen durante el mandato socialista, los sujetos a los que se dirigen estas campañas varían según la línea ideológica del ejecutivo y los mensajes se recrudecen en función del impacto en la sociedad.Palabras claves: sida; Gobierno de España; campañas de comunicación; análisis de contenido; enfoque ideológico.Abstract: Introduction: In the present article, we analyze the HIV-AIDS campaigns carried out by the Spanish Ministry of Health from the socialist era, in 2005-2011 to the Popular Party stage, 2011-2017. Objectives: To compare the investment in institutional advertising to over more than a decade and the messages to inform and prevent the AIDS by the Popular Party and PSOE. Methodology: Content analysis of the campaigns carried out in this period, focuse on the budget allocated, analysis of the centerpiece of the campaign, as well as on other variables such as means and supports employees, belonging to a plan of communication, target audience, duration and impact on society. Results: We also appreciate the decrease in investment, a change in the focus of the campaigns according to the ideological line of the executive and an evolution in the media with the incorporation of social networks and other technologies. Conclusion: The largest investments in institutional advertising occur during the socialist mandate, the subjects to whom these campaigns are directed vary according to the ideological line of the executive and the messages are intensified according to the impact on society.Keywords: AIDS; Government of Spain; communication campaigns; content analysis; ideological approach.
Pensando el VIH desde la comunicación = Thinking about VIH from Communication
Authors: Terrón Blanco José Luis
Published: November 2019

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Management commitment influence on implementation of occupational health and safety policies in water and sanitation companies in Nyeri County, Kenya
Authors: Nderitu Rachel , Mwaura Peter , Gichuhi David
Published: November 2019

Contemporary employees spend most of their working lives in the workplace. Work provides economic, social and psychological experiences that promote the mental wellbeing of individuals. The work environment should be devoid of hazards as much as possible to provide healthy and decent work for the workforce. However, numerous injuries, illnesses, property damages, and process losses take place at different workplaces. It is unclear how effectively OSH programs are being implemented in Kenya’s water sector since no study has been done. The general objective of the study was to establish an influence of management commitment on Occupational Health and Safety policies implementation in Water and Sanitation Companies in Kenya, a study of water and Sanitation Companies in Nyeri County. The study was based on the theoretical foundation that comprises two theories Leader-Member Exchange theory and Bourgeois and Brodwins Five Models of Strategy Implementation. The target population consisted of 474 employees in all water & sanitation companies in Nyeri County. From this population, a sample of 243 respondents was drawn using a random sampling technique but only 188 respondents filled and returned valid questionnaires giving the study an 80% response rate. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistics to present and analyze the data.  Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistical tools namely frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation while inferential statistical tools such as multiple regression were used to determine the relationship between variables. The study findings revealed that there was a statistically significant positive relationship between management commitment and implementation, the 27.9% unit change in the implementation of OSH policies was explained by the management commitment. The study recommends that the water companies’ management should be committed to the implementation of OSH.
Improving the Diagnosis of Ipsilateral Femoral Neck and Shaft Fractures
Authors: Rogers Nathan B. , Hartline Braden E. , Achor Timothy S. , Kumaravel Manickam , Gary Joshua L. , Choo Andrew M. , Routt Milton L. , Munz John W. , Warner Stephen J.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Despite increased awareness of ipsilateral femoral neck fractures in patients with high-energy femoral shaft fractures and advanced imaging with thin-cut high-resolution computed tomography (CT), failure of diagnosis remains problematic. The purpose of the present study was to determine if the preoperative diagnosis of ipsilateral femoral neck fractures in patients with high-energy femoral shaft fractures can be improved with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared with radiographic and CT imaging.

Methods:

In response to delayed diagnoses of femoral neck fractures despite thin-cut high-resolution CT, our institutional imaging protocol for acute, high-energy femoral shaft fractures was altered to include rapid limited-sequence MRI to evaluate for occult femoral neck fractures. All patients received standard radiographic imaging as well as thin-cut high-resolution pelvic CT imaging upon presentation. Rapid limited-sequence MRI of the pelvis was obtained to evaluate for an occult femoral neck fracture.

Results:

Thirty-seven consecutive patients with 39 acute, high-energy femoral shaft fractures resulting from blunt trauma were included. The average age of the patients was 29.1 years (range, 14 to 82 years). Ten (25.6%) of the 39 femoral shaft fractures were open. Two femoral shaft fractures (5.1%) were associated with ipsilateral femoral neck fractures that were detected on radiographs, and no MRI was performed. None of the remaining 37 femoral shaft fractures were associated with a femoral neck fracture that was identified on CT imaging. Thirty-three (89.2%) of 37 patients underwent pelvic MRI to evaluate the ipsilateral femoral neck. Four (12.1%) of those 33 patients were diagnosed with a femoral neck fracture (2 complete, 2 incomplete) that was not identified on thin-cut high-resolution CT or radiographic imaging.

Conclusions:

Rapid limited-sequence MRI of the pelvis for patients with femoral shaft fractures identified femoral neck fractures that were not diagnosed on thin-cut high-resolution CT in 12% of our patients. Our results suggest that the frequency of femoral neck fractures may be underrepresented on CT imaging; rapid limited-sequence MRI was feasible without delaying definitive treatment even in polytraumatized patients.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Anatomical Implications Regarding Femoral Nerve Palsy During a Direct Anterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Yoshino Kensuke , Nakamura Junichi , Hagiwara Shigeo , Suzuki Takane , Kawasaki Yohei , Ohtori Seiji
Published: November 2019

Background:

Femoral nerve palsy is a serious neurological complication following total hip arthroplasty (THA) via a direct anterior approach. One hypothesis is that the nerve injury is caused by malpositioning of retractors over the anterior wall of the acetabulum. The purpose of this cadaveric study was to clarify the anatomical features of the femoral nerve around the anterior acetabular rim and the potential risk of nerve injury during a direct anterior approach to THA.

Methods:

We dissected 84 cadaveric hips from 44 formalin-embalmed cadavers. When the cadavers were supine, the iliopsoas muscle and the femoral nerve were exposed and the anterior joint capsule and labrum were resected. The measurement points were determined along the acetabular rim every 30°, and a reference line was drawn from the anterior superior iliac spine to the center of the acetabulum, with the intersection of the rim at 0°. The minimum distance to the femoral nerve margin was measured from 0° to 150° (6 points). Other anatomical structures were measured to determine their association with the distance of the shortest measurement points.

Results:

The mean minimum distances to the femoral nerve were 33.2 mm at 0°, 24.4 mm at 30°, 18.4 mm at 60°, 16.6 mm at 90°, 17.9 mm at 120°, and 23.2 mm at 150°, showing that the distance at 90° was the shortest (p < 0.001). The thickness of the iliopsoas muscle and the femoral length were positively associated with the distance to the femoral nerve at 90°.

Conclusions:

In this cadaveric study, the femoral nerve was within 16.6 to 33.2 mm of the acetabular rim at points from 0° to 150° of a line drawn from the anterior superior iliac spine. The nerve was closest to the rim at 90°, indicating that this is an area of high risk during retractor placement.

Clinical Relevance:

Retractor placement at 90° to the anterior acetabular rim should be avoided to reduce the risk of femoral nerve injury.
Quantifying 2D and 3D Fracture Leakage Pathways Observed in Wellbore Cement after Uniaxial Compressive Loading
Authors: Yang Xinxiang , Kuru Ergun , Gingras Murray , Iremonger Simon , Taylor Jared , Lin Zichao
Published: November 2019

Stress-induced fractures in wellbore cement can form high-risk pathways for methane or carbon dioxide leakage yet little to no quantitative information on the impact of these fractures has been reported. To investigate this, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and micro computed tomography (micro-CT) techniques were utilized to quantify the 2D and 3D geometrical parameters of cement fractures in mature thermal thixotropic cement samples that were subjected to pre- and post-peak compressive stress. A novel simulation method was also proposed to quantify the impact of the stress-induced realistic 3D fractures on the cement permeability.

Results show that: i-) For pre-peak samples, 90% of the 2D fractures have length and width smaller than 100 μm and 5 μm, respectively. Although higher compressive stress reshaped the 3D fractures and increased the fracture length and width, no well-propagated fractures were observed; ii-) For post-peak samples, distinctly visible (> 0.1 mm) well-propagated fractures were generated but failed to penetrate the entire sample, therefore the effect of stress-induced fractures (up to 1.0% strain) on cement sample's permeability is limited; and iii-) CT-based 3D visualization and simulation both show that inclusion of a correctly engineered fiber additive is able to blunt the fracture propagation in cement samples.

We conclude that up to the uniaxial compressive strength, the monotonic compressive stress is not likely to create leakage pathways in wellbore cement since the 2D fractures observed in SEM images are in limited dimensions and the large 3D fractures characterized in CT images have poor connectivity. Inclusion of a fiber additive is expected to enhance cement integrity by limiting the fracture propagation.
Sources of Strain Localization in Thermal Wells and Managing the Risks they Introduce through Engineering Design
Authors: Miller Samantha M. , Smith Kelcie T. , Chartier Mark A. , Meijer Garret
Published: November 2019

Pipe installed in thermally stimulated wells is subject to high axial loads arising from the combination of axial constraint and temperature changes. These axial loads are manifested as applied strains, which are a function of the material thermal expansion behaviour, rather than applied loads. Variations in tubular strength and stiffness act to redistribute these strains and, in some cases, cause local strains to be significantly higher than the global average. This ‘strain localization’ can be particularly pronounced when the temperature change is sufficient to yield the pipe body and when the system is subject to variations in tubular constraint.

The energy industry has identified that a robust design must account for strain localization (DACC IRP3, 2012). However, at present there is no industry accepted practice for characterizing the potential for strain localization and selecting appropriate design margins to protect casing from damage.

This paper provides an overview of strain localization in thermal well tubulars including discussion of the sources of constraint in both casing and liner, and discussion of the mechanisms that can trigger and exacerbate strain localization. The authors propose an analytical solution to calculate strain localization magnitude under basic conditions and demonstrate finite element methods for handling complex string designs and configurations. Finally, a case study provides an example of how the methods can be used to optimize string design to reduce the likelihood of problematic strain localization.

The discussion and finite element results provide an enhanced understanding of the mechanisms that will lead to strain localization and, in turn, provide guidance on what conditions to consider in the design of thermally stimulated wells. The analytical approach provides a practical approach to rapidly assess potential strain localization scenarios and ensure that those posing particular risk can be either characterized more rigorously or re-designed to minimize failure potential.
Well Integrity Issues: Extreme High-Pressure High-Temperature Wells and Geothermal Wells a Review
Authors: Phi Thai , Elgaddafi Rida , Al Ramadan Mustafa , Ahmed Ramadan , Teodoriu Catalin
Published: November 2019

Most untapped promising energy resources in the world are associated with extreme downhole environment conditions. Applying the conventional method of well construction and operation for extreme downhole conditions poses severe challenges for the safety and longevity of the well. Governments and independent standardization organizations have developed several regulations regarding maintaining well integrity. Nevertheless, methods of completing and operating Extreme High-Pressure-High-Temperature (XHPHT) wells as well as geothermal wells have not yet been standardized. Preserving well integrity throughout the life cycle of a well is very crucial. Failure in well integrity can lead to huge operational and environmental risk and increase the energy cost.

This paper critically reviews the causes and solutions of well integrity issues in XHPHT and geothermal wells. After giving an overview of these wells, the paper discusses the well barriers at different ages. It also presents the conditions that lead to well integrity issues. Furthermore, the article discusses comprehensively the influence of acidic environment on cement and casing degradation at HPHT and summarizes the most recent research findings and development strategies in mitigating the integrity issues.

Previous studies revealed that the integrity of well barriers is highly affected by the degradation of drilling and completion fluids, cement, and tubular materials. The main causes of the well integrity loss are the lack of understanding of downhole conditions, inappropriate well construction practices, poor selection of the casing material and cementing type as well as inadequate design verification and validation on the downhole specimen. The well barriers are inter-related to each other as the destruction of one barrier may lead to the dismantling of the entire well barrier envelope. The XHPHT and geothermal wells share numerous similar barrier integrity issues, but they also have some unique problems due to the nature of their own operations. Although there is a significant advancement in solving the well integrity issues for the extreme downhole conditions, a sizable technology gap still exists in constructing and operating XHPHT and geothermal wells.

The current market conditions and the advancement in technologies are making the development of XHPHT wells more economically feasible. This paper serves as a review of the current research and development regarding well integrity issues for XHPHT and geothermal wells.
Application of High Temperature Coatings for Near-Surface Corrosion Mitigation on SAGD Wells
Authors: Khallad Isaac , Habib Mohamad , Savino Vincenzo
Published: November 2019

Near-surface casing corrosion has been observed to occur on operating steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) wells in the Surmont field. The corrosion issue could pose risks to containment assurance and have negative implications on well economics throughout the life cycle. This paper discusses how the corrosion was first identified and then successfully mitigated using a high temperature coating solution on the production casing. The methodology used for coating testing, evaluation, and selection is also discussed.

A two-tiered testing program was developed to qualify suitable coatings for the Surmont application. Eleven coating systems from various suppliers were first tested in the lab in a screening exercise to identify the best-in-class coatings for further evaluation. The top six performing coatings were then tested in the field environment to complete the evaluation. Coating performance was evaluated using a series of standard test methods.

Out of the eleven candidate coatings, only two coatings qualified for the high temperature application in Surmont. These coatings are expected to provide long-term corrosion protection of the production casing at an optimized cost. One of these two coatings was successfully applied on an operating well and has provided reliable corrosion protection after four years of service.

The methodology discussed in this paper for coating evaluation and application has been successfully implemented in the Surmont field. The findings from this work can be used to mitigate near-surface corrosion which will result in improved containment assurance and well economics.
Double Barrier Strategy for Heavy Oil Producer Well in the South of Oman
Authors: Al Shizawi Wafa , Al Nairi Aadil , Cooper Allan , Al Mahrazy Khalfan , Putra Pristiwanto
Published: November 2019

The first phase of steam flood development has been successfully implemented in a Petroleum Development Oman (PDO). The oil producer wells are completed with a single mechanical barrier as they are classified as low risk (not having a potential to self-flow to surface as the target formation is under pressured). However, in the later stages of development, steam break through into the producer occurs and must be managed to maximize production and increase recovery rates. To avoid gas-lock of the production pump, a fluid level is maintained in the wellbore by producing the steam up the production annulus, a production strategy referred to as casing venting. Implementing this strategy causes the producer wells to be capable of self flowing if steam injection is maintained. A well capable of self flowing to surface is classified as medium risk and requires two barriers.

For phase 2 of the project, expansion of the field to the North and South, the producer wellheads will have a Hydraulic Surface Annulus Safety Valve (H-SAS) system installed in the VR profile on either side of the A-anulus (right & left) as the primary barrier. The SOV's (Side Outlet Valve) will be the second barrier.

The H-SAS system was developed to assure and enhance annulus integrity. As part of the capabilities, the utilization of this safety device allows pressure management and operational venting within the annulus while providing a barrier in the event of an incident. The new wellhead design will meet the well compliance requirements and also allow for casing venting during operation.
Best Practices in Design of Steam Splitters for Steam-Assisted Gravity Drainage Injection Wells
Authors: Nascimento Carlos , Gomez Bustamante Nicolas , Melo Marco
Published: November 2019

Steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) is the most common recovery method for bitumen reservoirs in Western Canada. This method basically consists of a producer and injector, built in parallel, one on top of the other. During the normal operation phase (or SAGD mode), the top well injects steam into the reservoir whereas the bottom one produces bitumen, water, and gas. In the injector well, it is common to consider steam splitters to better manage the steam injection along the reservoir and minimize the required injection pressure at surface. This paper reviews steam splitter application in SAGD injection wells in Western Canada and describes the best practices to achieve appropriate distribution of steam in the horizontal section, gathered after designing dozens of wells in the region and considering the implications of two-phase flow and effective heat transfer in tubulars and the reservoir. Several studies were done for one well using a multiphase flow simulator, including the design of the number of ports, steam flow rate sensitivity, injection only in the tubing and combined injection in tubing and casing, the number of steam splitters, and reservoir heterogeneity. The results are shown in terms of the designed number of ports and steam distribution in each steam splitter, required injection pressure, pressure and temperature profiles, and so on. These results will provide operators with additional insights into the downhole behavior of the horizontal steam injection well, leading to improved performance of SAGD processes and identification of possible challenging operational conditions.
Horizontal Steam Injection Liner Deployed Flow Control Device Design Development and Testing
Authors: Gorham Timothy , Sims Jackie , Buell R. Scot , Miller Roger , Fermaniuk Brent , Heukelman Herman
Published: November 2019

Controlling steam conformance in the horizontal injectors of SAGD projects is widely accepted as being critical for commercial success. This work is focused on steam distribution in horizontal injectors in mobile, heavy oil (non-bitumen), thermal development projects. Steam Conformance can be achieved by tubing or liner deployed FCD's (flow control devices). Liner deployed FCD's have several advantages over tubing-deployed FCD's which includes: smaller tubulars, lower capital costs, reduced well interventions, and potentially reduced surveillance requirements.

This paper provides an overview of a collaborative development methodology for liner-deployed FCD's in horizontal steam service between a service company and operator. This methodology included: Establishing functional, operational and dimensional basis of designComputational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of the FCD design and phase-split testing in the Horizontal Steam Injection Test Facility (HSITF)Design revisions based on CFD, HSITF and shift testing resultsField installations results based upon fiber optic, thermo-hydraulic, and mechanical analysis

These FCD's were designed with sliding-sleeve technology to enable opening or closing of each device. Different specifications of electroless nickel (EN) coatings were also tested to determine the performance for scaling and corrosion resistance. Within 6 months, three versions of the FCD's were tested in the HSITF with accompanying CFD. For each version the shifting forces before and after ~6 weeks of steam injection were measured. Each generation was improved based on the data from the prior version.

In December 2018, three FCD's were installed in a large bore horizontal steam injector in a tubing deployed completion for field qualification of the devices. This installation was the first step of a one-year field qualification test. The full test will involve multiple interventions to opening and closing the FCD's. A capillary tubing with fiber optic wrapped around the tubing and devices can confirm FCD openings or closings. The field qualification will also test the local operational capability to shift the FCD's. At the end of the field qualification, the flow devices will be retrieved for inspection and identification of further design improvements.
Evaluating Temperature Rate near the Wellbore Considering Slow Warm-Up Case for a Sagd Producer Well with Different Completion Configurations Using Dynamic Flow Simulations
Authors: Nascimento Carlos , Demirdal Barkim , Gauthier Joshua
Published: November 2019

Temperature and pressure changes are drastic during the warm-up phase (steam circulation) of SAGD wells as a result of introducing heat to cold tubulars. These drastic changes will impact casings as well as cement. Impacts of circulation strategy (fast vs. slow warm-up) for 11 ¾ in. intermediate casing with dual parallel completion design, on cement and casing were investigated previously. Current work focused on analyzing the impact of slow warm-up on smaller intermediate casing size (9 5/8 in.) for dual parallel and single string completion designs, the second one with vacuum insulation tubing (VIT).

The purpose of this paper is to complement the results of previous work in terms of using transient analysis to assess the impact of warm-up rates. The results of transient flow simulator data together with field data enable determining the effect of the warm-up period on different components of wellbore for different types of completions (small versus large wellbore, single versus dual string, uninsulated versus insulated tubing) from integrity perspective.

In this study, the dynamic flow simulations indicated that time for steam to reach the toe was almost the same for the dual string and the single string with VIT. In addition, the single string with VIT design eliminated instabilities in operational parameters (e.g. pressure) observed in the case of dual string. However, the single string with VIT case indicated that the heating rate of cement between the intermediate and surface casing string is the highest.
Enhancement of Current Methodologies Used for Tubular Connection Product Line Validation
Authors: Xie Jueren , Xie Junfeng
Published: November 2019

For high pressure/high temperature (HPHT) and thermal wells, it is important to verify that the selected tubular connection product possesses adequate structural integrity and sealing capacity under the demanding load conditions typically experienced by these wells throughout their life cycle.

Individual premium connection designs are typically evaluated and qualified to broadly adopted industry standards, such as ISO 13679 (2019) and API RP 5C5 (2017) for HPHT wells up to temperatures of 180°C, and ISO 12835 (2013) for thermal wells that experience temperatures from 180°C to 350°C. Proprietary operator-defined protocols are also used by some operators for connection qualification. While the current standards recognize that it is neither necessary nor practical for manufacturers to complete full-scale physical testing of the connection design for every different tubular diameter, weight and grade as a means to achieve full product line validation, the development of a practical framework and effective guidelines to achieve this outcome continues to be a work in progress. The basic approach allows interpolation and extrapolation of the results established through combined testing and analysis programs completed on a selected subset of sizes and weights of the full product line of the connection design.

This paper starts with a review of current standards for qualifying tubular connections for HPHT and thermal wells. It presents guidelines and an approach to facilitate the performance evaluation and product line validation of connection designs based on the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) methods and the recently established sealability criterion. To illustrate the approach, parametric FEA case studies were completed to determine the impact of different tubular sizes and weights on the sealability performance of gas-tight tubing and casing connections under HPHT and thermal well loading conditions. Based on the analysis results, recommendations and considerations for on-going research are made to improve the confidence in the use of interpolation and extrapolation methods presented in the current standards when conducting tubular connection product line validation exercises.
Corrosion Failure and Control of Carbon Steel and Anti-Corrosion Performance Evaluation of Candidate Materials in Thermal Applications
Authors: Li Jiankuan , Sun Chong , Roostaei Morteza , Mahmoudi Mahdi , Fattahpour Vahidoddin , Zeng Hongbo , Luo Jing-Li
Published: November 2019

This study presents an investigation of the on-site corrosion of carbon steel pipes with stainless steel mesh screens in a steam flood well in the Athabasca oil sand reservoirs to determine the failure patterns and mechanisms. To mitigate the corrosion of carbon steel, several candidate materials were selected, and their corrosion resistance was investigated.

In this work, the corrosion behavior and film characteristics of carbon steel pipes were studied by surface analysis techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spetrocsopy and X-ray diffraction. Corrosion resistant alloys (proRSf and proRSc), anti-corrosion coating (proRA05a) and pre-treated steel (proRAQa) were considered as alternative materials to carbon steel (proRAa and proRAb) and their corrosion protection performance in brine solution was evaluated by electrochemical methods such as potentiodynamic sweep and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

Results show that severe erosion-corrosion occurred on inner wall of the pipes and caused significant wall-thinning of pipes along with localized corrosion damages, which is the dominant reason for base pipe failure. In spite of the slight corrosion on outer wall of the base pipe, severe localized corrosion appeared at the interface between the carbon steel pipe and stainless steel mesh screens due to the galvanic corrosion effect of dissimilar metals. The corrosion rates of the corrosion-resistant materials were two or three orders of magnitude lower than that of carbon steel. The corrosion resistance ranking order is proRSc > proRSf > proRA05a > proRAQa > proRAa > proRAb.

This study improves the material selection procedure in thermal operations by investigating several alternatives to carbon steel. It also provides a testing procedure to assess the corrosion resistance of the material in thermal applications.
An Overview of the Field Performance of Tubing Deployed Flow Control Devices in the Surmont SAGD Project
Authors: Nespor Kristian , Chacin Jesus , Ortiz Julian , Morter Julie , Romanova Uliana , Bilic Jeromin , Gohari Kousha , Becerra Oscar
Published: November 2019

Flow Control Devices (FCDs) are known to enhance efficiency of oil production, overall project economics and environmental performance that is currently of particular importance for Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) operators in Western Canada. FCDs have been utilized in SAGD wells over a decade, primarily, as liner deployed (LD) applications. Compared to LD FCDs, tubing deployed (TD) FCDs for SAGD producers are less common and require better understanding from the standpoint of completion design and operational strategy.

A study has been conducted on TD FCD installations in producer wells in the Surmont SAGD project. The study was aimed to understand failure modes and causes for several failed SAGD producers retrofitted with TD FCDs. Due considerations were given to key factors such as geology, runtime, operational practices and the possibility of failure of the slotted liner. Caliper log, fiber optics and downhole imaging data were used in the study. FCD strings pulled from the ground have been also analyzed.

All failures were found to be erosive wear with localized full wall loss of the TD FCD base pipe. No detectable erosion or other damage to FCDs are observed. As a general practice, a less aggressive operation strategy for wells with TD FCD compared to wells with LD FCDs was implemented after the study to avoid new failures. Proper screen sizing for TD FCD retrofits in slotted liner wells was identified as an important factor to provide effective sand control and may help reduce failures, but screen sizing was found not to have a direct effect on the failures investigated. The study shows that TD FCD retrofits have proven to be successful; however, special considerations are required when designing TD FCDs installations for SAGD producers, compared to LD FCDs, in order to reduce risk of erosive damage and failure.
Foam Formulation for High Temperature SAGD Applications
Authors: Adetunji Lukemon A. , Ben-Zvi Amos , Filstein Alex
Published: November 2019

In SAGD operations, the steam chamber temperature can be as high as 250°C. Foam formulations that can withstand such high temperature are required for field deployment of foam as conformance control technique.

An evaluation of 12 surfactant formulations for their viability as steam foam candidate at chamber temperatures as high as 250°C is presented. Unlike other studies in the literature that used nitrogen for foam generation, methane was employed in this project.

This project reveals that strong foam can be formed at 250°C. Also, foam is only generated within a specific range of methane mass quality. Stronger foam was formed when steam and methane were injected simultaneously into the core. Lastly, the existence of residual oil in the core reduced the foam strength.

We analyzed the effect of a few parameters on foam strength. Parameters considered include concentration of surfactant, presence of steam as well as methane, mass quality of methane, and residual oil saturation.

Laboratory analyses comprising thermal stability, solubility, foam height, adsorption, and coreflood, were conducted.

The learnings from this project has the ability to accelerate the application of foam systems in high-temperature SAGD operations to increase conformance, maximize steam usage, and ultimately lead to overall reduction in GHG emissions from SAGD projects.
Lifetime Tubular Design: Combining Effects of Corrosion and Mechanical Wear
Authors: Liu Zhengchun , Samuel Robello , Gonzales Adolfo , Kang Yongfeng
Published: November 2019

During the lifetime of an oil/gas well, wellbore tubular structure might be subject to combined damage caused by both corrosion and mechanical wear. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct detailed stress analyses including these factors at the stage of tubular design.

An integrated well construction workflow was established for life-time well design. The temperatures and casing/tubing loads were obtained through numerical simulations of operations such drilling, stimulation, and production. All these simulations were accomplished using commercial software tools, including a thermal flow simulator and stress analyzer. On one hand, a commercial casing-wear simulator was used to predict the cumulative wear amount. On the other hand, a corrosion simulator was employed to predict pipe metal losses during each operation. The total amount of corrosion loss and mechanical loss were then compared against the maximum allowable wear for a safety check of the design.

The corrosion simulator was implemented in a computer program and integrated with the aforementioned commercial software of thermal flow and stress analysis. In a plot of maximum allowable wear versus depth, the curves of predicted wear, predicted corrosion, and predicted total metal loss are superimposed with the maximum allowable wear. This plot gives a straightforward and clear picture of the overall lifetime safety of the design.

A field case was studied with those integrated simulations. The production casing internal wear and internal/external corrosion were simulated. The predicted wear and corrosion data were in good agreement with the measured results. Further predictions provide rationales for future maintenance/workover operations.

Corrosion simulation and casing wear simulation were coupled with wellbore thermal flow analysis and stress analyses, helping proactively prevent tubular failure during the lifetime of the well. It is therefore valuable to include the integrated workflow during the wellbore tubular design where both corrosion and wear are involved.
Is radiographic lumbar spondylolisthesis associated with occupational exposures? Findings from a nested case control study within the wakayama spine study
Authors: Ishimoto Yuyu , Cooper Cyrus , Ntani Georgia , Yamada Hiroshi , Hashizume Hiroshi , Nagata Keiji , Muraki Shigeyuki , Tanaka Sakae , Yoshida Munehito , Yoshimura Noriko , Walker-Bone Karen
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background: To explore the relationship between radiographic spondylolisthesis and occupational factors in a case-control study nested within the Wakayama Spine Study (WSS).
Methods: The WSS is a cross-sectional observational study amongst Japanese adults. All participants completed a lifetime occupational history and underwent X-rays of the lumbar spine (L1-S1) according to a pre-defined protocol. One trained surgeon graded the presence of a spondylolisthesis based upon ≥5% anterior or posterior slip at one or more levels. Cases, with lumbar spondylolisthesis, were compared with controls without, for their principal occupation and occupational exposures.
Results: In total, data were available for 722 adults (245 men and 477 women), mean age 70.1 (range 53-93) years. According to the pre-defined radiographic criteria, 117 were defined with spondylolisthesis (cases), leaving 605 controls. Cases were not significantly different from controls for age, gender, BMI, smoking or alcohol intake. However, cases were more than twice as likely to report occupational driving ≥ 4 hours/day (OR 2.39, 95% CI 1.08-5.27) after adjustment for age, gender and BMI. Additionally, after stratification by age using 75 years as a cut-point, cases were more than 3-fold more likely to report having worked in the agricultural/ fishing industries (OR 3.47, 95% CI 1.29-9.29) among those aged <75 years. A reduced risk of being a case was associated with climbing slopes/steps and walking.
Conclusions: A history of occupational driving and working in the agricultural/fishing industry were associated with radiographic spondylolisthesis in this cross-sectional population study. This finding requires further evaluation in longitudinal studies.
External fixation-assisted reduction for the treatment of neglected hip dislocations with limb length discrepancy: a retrospective study of 13 cases.
Authors: Li Pengyu , Song Wenhao , Dong Jinlei , Qiu Daodi , Zhou Dongsheng
Published: November 2019

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new method for treating neglected hip dislocation with limb length discrepancy by using external fixation-assisted pre-reduction. Methods: Thirteen patients admitted between January 2010 to February 2018 with a mean duration from injury to surgery of 5.0±2.1 months and an average preoperative leg-length discrepancy of 7.7±2.3 cm were enrolled in this study. The dislocation and associated acetabular fracture type, clinical outcomes and residual limb equality were evaluated. Results: All patients had posterior dislocations, and nine patients presented with acetabular fractures and were followed-up for at least 12 months. The average traction duration of external fixators was 28.8±8.0 days and all patients received second-stage open reduction and internal fixation. Six patients showed residual limb length discrepancy within 2 cm. Patients showed significant improvement in hip function and pain relief. Complications including avascular femoral head necrosis and osteoarthritis occurred in three patients. Conclusion: Effective correction of limb length discrepancy and improved function were observed in patients with neglected hip dislocations and limb equality using traction by external fixation combined with second-stage open reduction. Further follow-up is required to determine long-term outcomes. Keywords: neglected hip dislocation, limb length discrepancy, external fixatio
Comparison between minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis and open reduction–internal fixation for proximal humeral fractures: a meta-analysis based on 1050 individuals
Authors: Li Feilong , Nie Tao , Liu Xuqiang , Wang Fuqiang , Gu Zhiping , Tao Qianyuan , Yao Cong , Luo Xuwen
Published: November 2019

Background This meta-analysis aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and complications of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) and open reduction–internal fixation (ORIF) in patients with proximal humeral fractures. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Ovid, and the Cochrane Library to identify all relevant studies from inception to April 2019. Cochrane Collaboration’s Review Manage 5.3 was used for meta-analysis. Results Sixteen studies involving 1050 patients (464 patients in the MIPO group and 586 patients in the ORIF group) were finally included. According to the meta-analysis, MIPO was superior to ORIF in operation time, blood loss, postoperative pain, fracture union time, and constant score. However, MIPO was associated with more exposure to radiation and axillary nerve injury. No significant differences were found in length of hospital stays and complication except for axillary nerve injury. Conclusion The present evidence indicates that compared to ORIF, MIPO had advantages in functional outcomes, operation time, blood loss, postoperative pain, and fracture union time for the treatment of PHFs. However, the MIPO technique had a higher rate of axillary nerve injury and longer radiation time compared to ORIF.