bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Characterization of River Depositional System Employing Detailed Automated Dip Picking Based on Optimized Ridge Filtering
Authors: Tyurin Evgeny , Kusov Anton
Published: October 2016

Interpretation of different types of reservoir genesis in fluvial settings, both from core and logs exposes significant challenges. Currently within industry the electrical wireline imagers are the most detailed logging methods available and provide unique information making solutions possible to resolve this puzzle. However imager data is rarely used to the full extent in geologic modelling due to its ambiguity and subjectivity in dip and azimuth processing.

Current image interpretation most frequently employs a manual dip picking process. This procedure requires significant man hours and potentially introduces human bias. The latter, from our experience, leads to smoothing of the dip and azimuth patterns as well as selecting only the most obvious bed boundary contrasts. Indeed it is critical to capture the entire range of dips for confident sedimentological interpretation. The majority of existing automated dip picking routines are based on pad-to-pad correlation, edge detection and Hough transform. These methods are considerably affected by noise and/or pad depth mismatch and often produce unreliable results. The newly developed automated dip picking routine adopts the ridge filtering methodology to the borehole image data. Data preparation involves overlapping sliding window, stripes removal, pads equalization and morphological filtering. The ridge filter methodology is applied with multiple scale factors creating multiple filtered images to ensure successful boundary picking in noisy or partially noisy datasets. The subsequent contouring routine is the key part of the bed boundary definition process. Apparent dip and azimuth are calculated using minimum least squares fitting of the sinusoid of the contour points. The appropriate bed boundary is selected by statistical analysis of the image area separated by each boundary created from the set of multiple filtered images.

The method presented in this paper allows for characterization of every bed boundary resolved by the high resolution resistivity image. The results show a 4.5 refinement, hence increased resolution in bed boundary definition as compared to the conventional, manual approach provided by logging contractors. The matching of the sinusoids to bed boundaries from both methods is also provided to highlight the improved accuracy of this automated method.

The thorough and robust characterization of the bedding data now permits recognition of sedimentary bodies of different genesis: braided rivers, meandering rivers and crevasse splays/deltas. The detailed dip and azimuth information allowed estimation of bedsets thicknesses and flow direction. The latter information and its distribution were directly used in the geologic sector model providing a valuable constraint on channel belt width and characteristic geometry.
Massive Hydraulic Fracturing Using Linear Pads in the Achimov Reservoirs at the Urengoy Field
Authors: Zolnikov Denis , Astafyev Vladimir , Eltsov Ilya , Zavyalov Nikolay , Perfilyev Dmitriy , Shturn Dmitriy , Kamenskiy Leonid
Published: October 2016

As the reserves of easy-to-produce hydrocarbons continue to deplete, the trend has become switching to the exploration and development of formations with much more complex geology and low reservoir properties. In many cases, commercial production from such targets is subeconomic unless enhanced oil recovery techniques are used. The Lower Cretaceous Achimov oil- and gas-bearing horizon is one such target in the West Siberian oil and gas province. Commercial production from the Achimov within the 1st Achimov Block at the Urengoy oil and gas condensate field involves massive hydraulic fracturing (MHF) treatments, which make a significant contribution to the ultimate flow rate. Based on sufficient treatment experience within a specific area, a MHF pumping program can be optimized to improve hydraulic fracturing efficiency. Linear gels used as a spacer fluid can help create the best fracture geometry and minimize the adverse impact of hydraulic fracturing fluid breakdown products on the quality of low-permeability reservoirs.
Coiled Tubing Complex Implementation at Stimulation and Testing Project of Deviated Exploration Gas Well at Chayandinskoe Oilfield, Yakutia, Russia
Authors: Kreknin S. G. , Pushnikov K. V. , Makarevich M. N. , Burdin K. , Pivovarov V. , Kuzichev B. , Novikov M. , Ronzhin K.
Published: October 2016

Recently drilled exploration well at Chayandinskoye Gas Condensate Field in East Siberia, where at the moment exploration drilling is at the final stage, was selected as a candidate to evaluate effectiveness of hydraulic fracturing stimulation to boost the production.

During the production logging and the well test on the pilot vertical section, three prolific zones were identified for further development.

As a result of several discussions with the Client and based on the preliminary data analysis, the decision was made to proceed with hydraulic fracturing treatment. Due to the remoteness of the field, unique and complicated geology and reservoir properties, it was clear that the single contactor is required who has a relevant experience and technology being capable to address the challenges and provide an integrated approach. This approach included designing fit-for-purpose well completion, multistage selective hydraulic fracturing and coiled tubing applications inclusive of capability to perform real-time downhole measurements to monitor and evaluate complex multiphase flow profile.

Company's completion segment had introduced and run 168-114mm combined premium-port liner down to 2034m MDDF equipped with 3 ports able to be shifted in open/close position, and hydraulic open-hole swelling packers to isolate annular. This type of completion allows selective or combined production from all the zones. Moreover, it enables selective stimulation of each zone, as well as selective or combined production well testing. In case of water breakthrough, knowing which zone is contributing to the water production, the premium-port can be shift closed to prolong the production without the immediate need to perform costly water shutoff treatment.

Historically hydraulic fracturing has been a very effective way of increasing production in low permeability reservoirs. Based on the job design, three treatments were performed with 39t, 95t and 20t accordingly.

Coiled Tubing services performed debris and residual proppant wellbore cleanout, multiple shifting of premium-ports, nitrogen kick off, and real-time downhole measurements of bottomhole pressure, temperature and production logging.

The remoteness of the gas condensate field and the limited timeframe created additional challenges in terms of logistics, equipment and chemicals mobilization. It was clear that the proper preparation and planning were the key to succeed. Needless to mention that the company state-of-the-art technologies, competent personnel and close collaboration between the segments and the Client were the essential part of the equation.
Well Stimulation Techniques on Carbonate Reservoirs of Eastern Siberia: Case History
Authors: Stanislav Moiseev
Published: October 2016

East Siberia oil-and-gas province, which has not been fully developed until now, is Russia's primary reserve for future increment and steady production of oil and gas. Relevance of Eastern Siberia oil-and-gas area (hereafter OGA) development is represented by the fact that considerable reserves of oil and gas remain unexplored at this stage.

East Siberia carbonate reservoirs are characterized by complex porosity and permeability properties associated with a variety of interstices (fissures, pores, caverns), high gas content of in-place oil and high bubble point pressure.

Core analyses for selection of hydrochloric acid compound components are essential for detailed examination of porosity and permeability properties of carbonate reservoirs.

Analyses for selection of hydrochloric acid compound components when testing carbonate reservoirs can considerably contribute to information content for future well stimulation works.

Surveys of wells # 71 and 73 of Danilovskiy license block confirm that large-volume hydrochloric acid treatment increases flow rate considerably as well as improves collecting properties of the well.

The most appropriate and efficient methods successfully applied on wells in Eastern Siberia for flow stimulation are hydrofracturing (HF) and large-volume hydrochloric acid treatment of formation bottom-hole zone.
Well Interventions Program Preparation by Means of Digital Information Systems at the Southern Priobskoye Field
Authors: Sitnikov A. , Pustovskikh A. , Asmandiyarov R. , Sheremeev A. , Zulkarniev R. , Kolupaev D.
Published: October 2016

Integrated asset development project planning is based on delivering maximum effectiveness of hydrocarbon reserves development, formulating the concept of optimum development and operation of the asset in the long run. The fundamental of integrated asset development project planning is formation of integrated well intervention programs (hereinafter referred to as the well intervention) – commissioning of new wells, frac, side-tracking on the operating well stock, recompletion, etc. Relevance of well intervention planning process is evident – oil, water and gas production capacity and water injection are calculated based on the worked out well intervention programs, infrastructure development and construction is designed, and project efficiency is evaluated.

The authors describe the process of formation of integrated well intervention programs, using digital information systems at the Priobskoye field (southern concession area). Remaining recoverable reserves of the field constitute 362 mn t of oil, the operating well stock of the field exceeds 2,000 wells, more than 500 well interventions are carried out annually.

In 2015, a digital information system – IS Well Intervention Selection (algorithms are described in SPE- 176561) – was put in commercial operation; the engineers use this system to make calculations for selecting well intervention – frac and side-tracking, and align well interventions. The system is based on a web interface enabling vizualization of results, prompt computations and decision-making for all related specialists in the real time mode, while accumulating and saving the history. Technical support procedure is established; the interface is periodically upgraded in connection with functionality enhancement. Within 2015, the number of completed repeated frac activities has been increased to 180 operations p.a. (+50 wells) with startup increase to 14 tpd (+2 tpd), 76 tons of oil have been produced over the target. In 2016, according to the expert assessment of the activities potential, it is planned to increase the number of repeated frac activities to 260 operations per year (+100 wells to the business plan).

In 2016, a new digital information system project – "New Well Drilling Rating" is to be launched. The project guideline has been elaborated, and the new well drilling rating template has been implemented. The system functionality for each new planned well by strata includes a block of geological and process information, computation modules for expert and probabilistic assessment of flowrates, reserves, production capacity with probability 10%, 50% and 90% (hereinafter referred to as P-10, P-50, P-90), a module of the financial economic model for estimation of all development scenarios.
Integrated Analysis and Optimization of the Development System for West Siberia Tight Oil Reservoirs – Vinogradova Field Example
Authors: Arsenty Ryazanov , Oleg Petrashov , Alexey Kornilov
Published: October 2016

The main subject of the paper is validation of different development strategies for low-permeability reservoirs belonging to the Lower Cretaceous Frolov formation (AS3 layer) with thickness of net pay zone less than 10 m. The paper presents main results of AO "RITEK" business activities on Vinogradova field on the stage of the pilot development and prospective directions for further optimization.
Automatization of Right Drilling Mode Selection and Troubles Prediction While Designing and Constructing Oil and Gas Wells
Authors: Lind Yu. B. , Gabbasov B. M. , Khashper A. L. , Khashper B. L. , Galeev S. R.
Published: October 2016

The purpose of the work is development of informational and analytical system which allows to make recommendations on selection of optimum drilling parameters (type and parameters of drilling fluid, type and characteristics of bits and motors) on the base of field data on drilled wells of an oilfield for effective drilling meterage of wellbore and prevention of troubles in drilling new wells.
An Oil and Gas Company Operating in An Area of High Biodiversity - A Model for Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility
Authors: Ikapi Thoty Moussotsi
Published: October 2016

Shell Gabon – a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell Plc – has been operating in Gabon since 1960. Since this time Shell's exploration has taken place across a large area of the costal south-west of Gabon, resulting in major discoveries at Gamba (the largest oil field in Gabon at the time) and Rabi in 1985 (the largest onshore oil field in sub-Saharan Africa).

The south-west costal area in which Shell operates also known as the Gamba Complex of Protected Areas is a landscape of high national and international importance for its biodiversity; hosting two of the most beautiful national parks, two Ramsar sites, one wildlife reserve and three hunting reserves, and where oil pipeline, oil machineries cohabite with many endangered species such as western gorillas, chimpanzees, sea turtles, and the forest elephants our African giant.

Following internal standards and national legislation requirements on sustainable development, Shell Gabon, an ISO 14001 standard certified company, has recently developed (first Oil & Gas company in Gabon) a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), which identifies critical habitats, priority biodiversity, and outlines Shell Gabon's approach to managing biodiversity impacts and risks. Ultimately the BAP has been integrated into Shell Gabon's Environmental Management System aiming at enforcing operating procedures on biodiversity aspects. Examples might include reducing the number of roads built and their width; speed controls; limiting the size of platform constructions and use of existing platforms wherever possible for drilling; prohibition of hunting, fishing and transporting bush meat and weapons in production areas; promoting anti-poaching activities together with the Government authorities, local NGOs' and one long lasting partner, the Smithsonian Institute. For almost two decades, Shell Gabon has made a significant contribution to the understanding of biodiversity, making the Gamba complex of protected areas a safe haven where wild life cohabits with oil operations. Oil & Gas exploration in sensitive and priority biodiversity areas is achievable
Incapacitation of Each Vital Equipment at a Time in Highly Demanding Situation - Is it Beyond Visualization of Trained and Experienced Workforce?
Authors: Alam Mohammad Aftab , Qattan Fahad Al-
Published: October 2016

Objective of this paper is to identify possible crucial circumstances during drilling, workover or associated activities at rigs, where each Safety Critical Well Control Equipment may incapacitate at a time in a demanding situation, which may lead to uncontrolled flow of Well with potentially severe consequence. This paper will present some of likely supervisory failures to visualize scenarios, when the most vital Well Control Equipment such as BOP, Stabbing Valve, Drill Pipe (DP) Spacing-out, and Mud Transfer Pump becomes defunct due to either design limitations, operational or other constraints in uncommon situations during a particular stage of activities at rigs.

While running in MDT (Modular Dynamics Tester) inside a newly drilled deviated gas well, logging tool was stuck in open hole even after reducing mud weight from 14.8 to 14.6 ppg. Consequently, Baker Overshoot through 5 ½ in. DP pipe was being run with wireline cable inside DP to guide and catch the fish by "Cut & Thread" mechanism to strip over wireline cable. However while running in to 13,632 Ft., sever back flow was observed, which was controlled through overbalance by pumping 250 Bbl of one string volume mud followed by 25 Bbl slug and RIH (Running in Hole) was resumed.

However, after running three stands, back flow restarted and although there was continuous flow, RIH of 14 stands were continued to 14,955 Ft. (+/- 61 Ft. from fish). Ultimately, Derrick Man latched last stand in Elevator with logging wire inserted inside DP, then there was severe gushing of mud with oil and gas from DP resting on Slip. The DP open end could not be closed by installing Stabbing Valve as logging wire was inside DP with wire connection over C-Plate above DP, preventing valve from making up in DP box. BOP pipe ram was closed but shear ram failed to cut DP as tool joint was falling in shear ram cavity. Consequently well continued flowing uncontrolled and finally caught fire after few hours. The well was killed next day by pumping high-density (19.2 ppg) mud.

This paper will elaborate overlook by supervisory workforce to envisage the incapacitation of vital safety critical equipment and suggest contingency plan to prevent such situation where one by one all immediate well control measures are compromised.
Human Factors and Fallacies of Behaviour Based Safety Program
Authors: Ajimoko Tayo
Published: October 2016

Most behavior based safety programs (BBSP) are implemented after the fact of either a major accident, a change in company organizational structure or as a result of a dip in company fortune. It is common practice to rely on historical data, empirical analysis and observable trends while embarking on the implementation effort. The oil industry safety management systems have evolved and have been driven by the need to embed a culture that aligns with corporate vision and objectives.

A common strategy in the exploration and producing industry is to create a culture of Safety First where everyone especially in the operations zone is empowered to stop the Job. This a great fallacy because human factors are not factored into the development of these program. This paper will therefore highlight these issues.

This paper is based on documented case studies and the author's operational experience in different companies and projects. Because most BBSP discounts the importance of human factors, it is typically met with homeostasis. Many reasons can be advanced for this observation and clearly the top reason will be that change is not natural to man and the individual's culture, experience, personality and change intelligence will all contribute to either make him or her a pro-change or an anti-change agent.

This paper will elaborate on the following pitfalls in the process of implementing a BBSP to wit: ❖The fallacies of HSSE Data Mining and Management.❖Analysis and Inferences of Organizational Structures and Cultures.❖The knowledge of a work team and indeed an organization is not always additive when behaviors are the focus of attention.❖Leadership is an aberration and power distance elimination is the delimiter of the success or failure of any BBSP.❖The half-life of learned lessons and why the same incidents recur within the same industry despite the technologies available for knowledge dissemination.

While HSSE programs are useful tools for communicating and implementing corporate safety visions and goals amongst others its limitation derives from the fact that it depends on the peripheral human behavior domain to be successful. This paper identifies all the limitations and proffers a methodology for implementing human factors backed BBSP that avoids the pitfalls.
Waiting Time is a Wasted Time: Obio Cottage Hospital Outpatient Transit Time Improvement
Authors: Mustapha Adetoun , Fajola Akinwumi , Umejiego Chidozie , Fakunle Babatunde
Published: October 2016

Objectives/Scope

The vast majority of 170 million Nigerians have no access to affordable and quality assured health care. The government provided medical facilities are mostly over-stretched and most Nigerians pay out of pocket for basic health care. The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited embraced the concept of Public Private Partnership as a strategic approach to Corporate Social Responsibility in the health sector. In 2010, SPDC in collaboration with the Rivers State government upgraded the Obio health center to a cottage hospital and worked with the local community to catalyse the Obio Community Health Insurance Scheme. The partners in the CHIS agreed an annual premium of N7,200 [about$36] per participant for access to essential primary and secondary health care, with special focus on maternal and child health.

Methods, Procedures, Process

As the insurance package covers more than 95% of community health care needs, patients seen daily increased from 20 to 147 per day. Patients spent long hours on visits leading to dissatisfaction. In 2012, Lean methodology was deployed to address this problem. The outpatient transit time starts from the time the patient reports to the reception, goes through the medical records, vital signs, consultations, laboratory investigation (if necessary), and pharmacy, till discharge.

With the use of Lean tools such as value stream mapping, lack of standardisation of key activities at transit points was found to be causing proportionate delay in patients waiting time. 5S exercise was carried out, Standard Operating Procedures and visual measures were developed and deployed with onsite trainings.

Results, Observations, Conclusions

These led to 78% reduction in transit time, hospital handling more patient flow per day and improved customer satisfaction.

Novel/Additive Information

Lessons learnt include using leadership Gemba visits and inculcating Lean thinking among hospital staff to improve operational efficiency and bring about a culture change.
Study of hydraulics and mixing in roof tanks used in intermittent water supply
Authors: Hernandez-Lopez R. D. , Tzatchkov V. G. , Martin-Dominguez A. , Alcocer-Yamanaka V. H.
Published: October 2016

Roof tanks are common in low and middle income countries, due to the intermittent water supply. Their hydraulic and water mixing behaviour has not been studied. This paper presents the results of a study on mixing and water demand in roof tanks, based on physical and numerical models. Tracer tests were carried out on a real scale transparent wall laboratory model of a roof tank, and a three-parameter residence time distribution model was applied, showing that the model that best describes mixing in roof water tanks is the one with a completely stirred flow reactor with a small portion of bypassing. This result was confirmed by computational fluid dynamic simulations and visual observation. The instantaneous water flow derived from activating typical home water-using fixtures was measured at the pipe feeding the tank, the pipe exiting the tank, and without a roof tank. Stochastic water demand patterns were generated with the measured data and used in the numerical model of a small distribution network. Based on this model it was found that water demand and pipe flow behave differently in continuous and intermittent water supply networks. The instantaneous flow rate withdrawn from the water distribution network pipes is lower in systems with roof tanks.
Nutrition and Other Protective Behaviors Motivated by Environmental Health Risk Awareness
Authors: Jones Elizabeth W. , Feng Limin , Dixon Jane K. , Dixon John P. , Hofe Carolyn R. , Gaetke Lisa M.
Published: October 2016

Background:

Research findings have suggested that exposure to environmental pollutants contributes to increased health risks, which may be modulated by certain nutrition and other protective health behaviors. Nutrition professionals play an important role in effectively disseminating this information and in devising specific community-based nutrition education programs for audiences located in areas with environmental health issues.

Objective:

To assess awareness of environmental health problems and motivation to adopt protective health behaviors for use in planning nutrition education programs for communities exposed to environmental pollutants.

Method:

Data were collected from a modified, validated Environmental Health Engagement Profile (EHEP) survey instrument administered to adults (n=774) participating in community events in Kentucky based on location relative to hazardous waste sites.

Results:

The modified EHEP survey instrument showed good internal consistency reliability, and demographic characteristics were evaluated. Correlation analyses revealed significant positive correlations in all groups, separately and combined, between awareness of environmental pollution in an individual’s surroundings and the extent of concern that pollutants cause adverse health effects (P < 0.01) and between concern that pollutants cause adverse health effects and taking personal actions to protect against such environmental insults (P < 0.01). The groups having the highest level of awareness posed by pollution are those residing near federally designated hazardous waste sites.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that determining and expanding an audience’s knowledge and perceptions of environmental health risks will enhance effective nutrition education program planning.
Migraciones laborales, derechos humanos y cooperación internacional
Authors: García Ortega Martha
Published: October 2016

Conforme a los instrumentos internacionales firmados por el gobierno mexicano relacionados con los temas migratorios y de derechos humanos, resulta pertinente analizar su traducción en la gestión de la frontera sur –la famosa puerta hacia Centroamérica y el Caribe– desde uno de los puntos menos conocidos y más desatendidos: la frontera México-Belice. En ese tenor se presenta el contexto de la región limítrofe terrestre conocida como Río Hondo, donde, desde hace décadas, miles de migrantes han cruzado de manera clandestina y otros tantos se han asentado, integrándose a la vida familiar y comunitaria de esta amplia zona. Dentro de esas experiencias de movilidad, cobran mayor importancia aquellos añejos procesos caracterizados por las dinámicas transfronterizas. El objetivo de este artículo será analizar las condiciones del trabajo temporal dentro de un mercado dominado por la agroindustria del azúcar, el ingenio de San Rafael de Pucté, ubicado en el sureño estado de Quintana Roo.
Conflicto social y reterritorialización. Miradas cruzadas sobre movimientos rurales y regionalistas en Bolivia
Authors: Do Alto Hervé , Fontana Lorenza Belinda
Published: October 2016

Desde la crisis de octubre de 2003, mejor conocida como la “guerra del gas”, el sistema político boliviano ha sido sacudido por dos movimientos: por una parte, el movimiento rural campesino-indígena, encarnado por el líder cocalero y actual presidente Evo Morales y, por otra, el movimiento regionalista, encabezado por las élites de los departamentos orientales. A partir de dos trabajos de investigación sobre la conflictividad y las nuevas configuraciones políticas en Bolivia, desde la elección de Morales, este artículo se propone dar cuenta de las múltiples expresiones político-organizacionales generadas por nuevas formas de territorialidad, como resultado de las demandas sociales y de las recientes reformas institucionales y normativas a lo largo de la última década. Desde estas miradas cruzadas, con bases empíricas y perspectivas analíticas, tanto los movimientos regionalistas como los movimientos indígena-campesinos, muchas veces considerados fenómenos diametralmente opuestos e incluso mutuamente reactivos, aparecen como el resultado de un proceso paralelo y entrecruzado de reconfiguración territorial, a partir de un alejamiento del ámbito nacional y de la política partidaria, y de un retorno hacia lo local, donde un nuevo vínculo entre identidades y territorios se alimenta y prospera.
« Les héros ne sont le patrimoine unique de personne ». Les enjeux des célébrations du Bicentenaire de l’Indépendance et du Centenaire de la Révolution mexicaine de 2010
Authors: Bordat Élodie M.
Published: October 2016

Comment le Mexique, dirigé à l’époque par le gouvernement conservateur du Parti Action Nationale (PAN), a-t-il commémoré le Bicentenaire de son Indépendance et le Centenaire de la Révolution mexicaine en 2010 ? Comment les trois pouvoirs de l’État et les États fédérés ont-ils célébré ces événements ayant donné origine à l’État-nation mexicain alors qu’ils représentent une défaite des conservateurs, dont les héritiers sont au pouvoir fédéral au moment des célébrations ? Cet article s’attachera à répondre à ces questions grâce à des entretiens semi-directifs menés avec des acteurs clés de ces célébrations, à l’analyse des événements organisés en 2010, et des rapports produits par les organisations de contrôle de l’Exécutif suite à des dénonciations de malversations. Nous explorons l’hypothèse selon laquelle ces célébrations sont utilisées par le gouvernement comme un « rite commémoratif » permettant de réactiver le sentiment d’union et de « communauté d’intérêts et de traditions » des Mexicains dans un contexte de crise politique et sociale.
CHARACTERIZATION AND INTRINSIC DISSOLUTION RATE STUDY OF MICROWAVE ASSISTED CYCLODEXTRIN INCLUSION COMPLEXES OF GEMFIBROZIL
Authors: Ain S. , Singh R. , Ain Q.
Published: October 2016

Objective: The aim of the present study was to carry out characterization and intrinsic dissolution rate study of microwave assisted inclusion complex of poorly water soluble, lipid lowering agent gemfibrozil [5-(2,5-dimethylphenoxy)-2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid] with naturally occurring β-cyclodextrins (CDs) or cycloheptaamylase.

Methods: In this work, the phase solubility study was performed to find the ratio of drug and cyclodextrin complexes. Inclusion complexes were prepared by kneading and the prepared complex was subjected to microwave drying and conventional drying techniques. The prepared complexes were evaluated by intrinsic dissolution rate studies and equilibrium solubility study. Further characterization was done by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffractometry (DSC).

Results: The phase solubility studies showed a linear AL-type diagram indicating the formation of inclusion complexes in 1:1 molar ratio β-CD-gemfibrozil complex with maximum stability constant of 148.88 M-1was selected for preparation of inclusion complex. The microwave dried product was identified as the inclusion complex with maximum IDR when compared to the conventional dried product.

Conclusion: This study was concluded that the microwave drying is the most suitable of the previously occurring drying techniques. Since it showed the highest solubility and IDR value.
DESIGN AND STATISTICAL EVALUATION OF A MULTIUNIT DELIVERY SYSTEM CONTAINING NISOLDIPINE-SOLUPLUS® SOLID DISPERSION FOR HYPERTENSION CHRONOTHERAPY
Authors: Vats Sandeep Kumar , Gupta Roop Narayan , Ramaraju Kalaiselvan , Singh Romi
Published: October 2016

Objective: To study the mechanism and factors affecting the design of an industrially scalable formulation in a combined drug delivery module containing solid dispersion (SD) multiunit pellets with novel polymer Soluplus® in a modified release system to address chronotherapeutic needs of hypertension therapy.

Methods: Nisoldipine-Soluplus® SD pellet formulations were prepared using the central composite design of experiments (CCD) to study the effect of inert core level and drug to polymer ratio. The solid dispersions were formed on inert pellets surface by fluidized bed coating and characterized by dissolution efficiency and time for 90% drug release. The data was statistically analyzed to develop a response surface for optimum SD formulation in pellets. The SD pellets were characterized by FTIR, DSC and SEM. The optimum formulation of SD coated pellets was further coated with Eudragit S100-L100 polymer mix and characterized for dissolution in multimedia and two-step dissolution for lag time.

Results: A response surface was developed for highest dissolution efficiency (%DE) and least time to release 90% drug (T90). The model was significant, and the role of core pellets was found to be more significant than the drug-polymer ratio. The study of the desirability function indicated that a polymer content of 75% and inert core level to yield 23% net weight gain, provided optimum dissolution enhanced SD pellets. The drug was found to exist in amorphous form. The final capsules containing Eudragit S100-L100 coated delayed release SD pellets showed a lag time of 2 h and a definite pH-gradient towards drug release.

Conclusion: The findings from this study helped to understand the mechanism, design and factors affecting drug release from a delayed release SD system for a poorly soluble drug for potential hypertension chronotherapy.
INTRANASAL MICROEMULGEL AS SURROGATE CARRIER TO ENHANCE LOW ORAL BIOAVAILABILITY OF SULPIRIDE
Authors: Ayoub Abdallah Mohamed , Ibrahim Mahmoud Mokhtar , Abdallah Marwa Helmy , Mahdy Mahmoud A.
Published: October 2016

Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate microemulsion based gel (MBG) of sulpiride "a poorly water soluble antipsychotic with low oral bioavailability."

Methods: Gelling polymers such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC-Na), hydroxyl propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC K4m), carbopol 940 and Na alginate were evaluated for their potential to gel sulpiride microemulsions (MEs) without affecting the MEs structure. Also, sulpiride solution (SS) and conventional gel (without ME) were prepared and compared with MBG. Gel formulations were checked for their viscosity, pH, spreadability (S), mucoadhesive force (MF), and nasal ciliotoxicity studies. The in vitro release of sulpiride across a cellophane membrane and its permeation through the nasal mucosa in phosphate buffered saline pH 6.8 (PBS) were also performed. In addition, a pharmacodynamic study of optimized formulae compared to SS and microemulsion (ME) was evaluated in rats.

Results: CMC-Na and HPMC K4m were not able to gel sulpiride loaded MEs while Na alginate gave an unclear gel with a sticky texture. Results revealed that the viscosity, mucoadhesion force, and spreadability of the MBG increased with increasing carbopol 940 concentrations. The flux was arranged as the following, MBG>conventional gel>sulpiride solution (SS). According to histopathological study, safe and non-irritant MBGs suitable for nasal administration were successfully prepared. Finally, the pharmacodynamic study indicated that intranasal sulpiride MBG had a significant effect (*P<0.001) than SS and ME administered either intravenous or intranasal.

Conclusion: MBG provides signiﬁcant enhancement in nasal bioavailability not only by absorption enhancing effect of ME but also, by increasing nasal residence time
The influence of the placement method of fuel dispenserson the refueling cycle of vehicles
Authors: Levin Ruslan Yur’evich , Maslennikov Valeriy Aleksandrovich
Published: October 2016

Logistics of production processes at a gas station is a critical point in the system of petroleum products, on the operation of which the effectiveness and sustainability of the transport sector depends. The provision and supply of road transportation of petroleum products is one of the most urgent tasks.Technological processes of reception, storage of fuel and refuelling of motor vehicles on petrol stations needs a scientific study of their structure and organization. At the design stage of a gas station, it is necessary to consider quite a lot of different fac- tors: the configuration of the area under the gas station, the scheme of arrangement and the number of fuel dispensers, the trajectory of motion and the design of vehicles, calls to the station, distance between cars on duty, between the elements of buildings and equipment, as well as the requirements for fire, building, public, sanitary-epidemiological and state regulations. Therefore, the designer has a great opportunity for varying the parameters of the elements of the station, especially when considering the characteristics of the fueled vehicles.Typical projects at a same power station include various sizes, the seizure of land to build a station changes from planning decisions and the locations of all its technological elements. For increase of functioning efficiency of transportation systems of petroleum products in modern conditions on the basis of the design and technical innovations it is necessary to conduct special studies.Research planning decisions for a refueling station led to the conclusion that the placement of technological equipment in the refueling area has a certain impact on the length of vehicles service. Improving the layout of the refueling zone several times re- duces the loss of the components of the refueling cycle time and increase the capacity of the station.Information base describing the stages of a gas station includes parts of refueling cycle time and allows choosing the optimal variant of fuel dispensers at the fueling area. The rational layout of columns can reduce the time of customer service and increase the capacity of the object.
Synergetic scenarios of social and economic development of Russiaand construction management
Authors: Fokina Zoya Titovna
Published: October 2016

The author examined the variations of Russia’s social and economic development in the following years оn the basis of synergetic scenarios application method. The first scenario is related to the transformation of Russia into raw material resource base and а source of low-cost lаbоur force for the advanced nations of West and East, the loss of the country›s intellectual and cultural potential. The orientation towards innovative, scientific and technical development in the context of modern, post-industrial, information age is associated with the other scenario of social and economic development of Russia. The analysis of the successful experience of scientific and technical development of the USA and the USSR economies as а whole, and of the construction industry as оnе of the important economy directions, is а substantiation for the necessity of new industrialization in Russia, in the context of market and information age. The author advances а statement that Russia in 21st century needs to repeat the positive experience of industrialization and accelerated scientific and technical development of the Soviet Union. The problems facing Russia аrе construction of innovative industrial projects that meet the requirements of the world standards, implementation of largescale national programs, advancement towards the information society. The article emphasizes а thesis about the necessity to manage modern social and economic processes. It focuses the attention of scientists and expert managers оn I. Ansoff’s new management paradigm. The article pays special attention to the matters of modeling the changes in the construction industry complex of Russia, which is one of the most important branches of economy. Two alternative scenarios of the most general changes in construction industry аrе given in it.
The system for statistical analysis of logistic information
Authors: Khayrullin Rustam Zinnatullovich
Published: October 2016

The current problem for managers in logistic and trading companies is the task of improving the operational business performance and developing the logistics support of sales. The development of logistics sales supposes development and implementation of a set of works for the development of the existing warehouse facilities, including both a detailed description of the work performed, and the timing of their implementation. Logistics engineering of warehouse complex includes such tasks as: determining the number and the types of technological zones, calculation of the required number of loading-unloading places, development of storage structures, development and pre-sales preparation zones, development of specifications of storage types, selection of loading-unloading equipment, detailed planning of warehouse logistics system, creation of architectural-planning decisions, selection of information-processing equipment, etc. The currently used ERP and WMS systems did not allow us to solve the full list of logistics engineering problems. In this regard, the development of specialized software products, taking into account the specifics of warehouse logistics, and subsequent integration of these software with ERP and WMS systems seems to be a current task. In this paper we suggest a system of statistical analysis of logistics information, designed to meet the challenges of logistics engineering and planning. The system is based on the methods of statistical data processing.The proposed specialized software is designed to improve the efficiency of the operating business and the development of logistics support of sales. The system is based on the methods of statistical data processing, the methods of assessment and prediction of logistics performance, the methods for the determination and calculation of the data required for registration, storage and processing of metal products, as well as the methods for planning the reconstruction and development of the existing warehouses. The results of approbation of software for the logistics of designing large warehouses of metal trading companies are given.
Morphology, distribution and ecology of the freshwater red algae Paralemanea (Batrachospermaceae, Batrachospermales, Rhodophyta) in Serbia
Authors: Simic Snezana , Djordjevic Nevena
Published: October 2016

This paper describes the morphology, distribution and ecology of 15
populations of Paralemanea collected from 2004 to 2011 in 12 rivers in
Serbia. On the basis of morphological and reproductive characteristics, two
species were identified: P. annulata (12 populations) and P. catenata (3
populations). Morphological (presence of a stalk, thalli length, nodal
diameter (ND), internodal diameter (ID), node and internode diameter ratio
(ND:ID) and reproductive (arrangement of spermatangial sori, length and
diameter of carpospores, presence of Chantransia stage) features described in
the literature are generally confirmed in the populations from Serbia. True
branching was observed in six populations of P. annulata in the gametophyte
stage. False branching (whorled branching) occurred in five populations of
both species observed. In the Pcinja (P2), Ibar (IB5) and Crnovrska rivers
(CR10), the number of whorled branching was 6-11 (P. annulata). For P.
catenata the number of such branching was 3-5 in the Nisava River (N8) and
Sokobanjska Moravica River (SM12). False branching appears at damaged thalli,
somewhat repairing it. Algae belonging to the Paralemanea genus were found at
altitudes from 160 to 780 m (P. annulata), and from 240 to 400 m (P.
catenata), at water temperatures ranging from 11.5 to 29?C (P. annulata) and
from 12.6 to 17.4?C (P. catenata), in neutral and weakly alkaline waters,
with a high level of oxygen concentration, with conductivity ranging from 70
to 433 ?S/cm for P. annulata, and 260 to 440 ?S /cm for P. catenata. It was
also observed that P. annulata and P. catenata often grow in oligotrophic
conditions and rarely in eutrophic conditions.
Impact of Perturbed Pancreatic β-Cell Cholesterol Homeostasis on Adipose Tissue and Skeletal Muscle Metabolism
Authors: Cochran Blake J. , Hou Liming , Manavalan Anil Paul Chirackal , Moore Benjamin M. , Tabet Fatiha , Sultana Afroza , Cuesta Torres Luisa , Tang Shudi , Shrestha Sudichhya , Senanayake Praween , Patel Mili , Ryder William J. , Bongers Andre , Maraninchi Marie , Wasinger Valerie C. , Westerterp Marit , Tall Alan R. , Barter Philip J. , Rye Kerry-Anne
Published: October 2016

Elevated pancreatic β-cell cholesterol levels impair insulin secretion and reduce plasma insulin levels. This study establishes that low plasma insulin levels have a detrimental effect on two major insulin target tissues: adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. Mice with increased β-cell cholesterol levels were generated by conditional deletion of the ATP-binding cassette transporters, ABCA1 and ABCG1, in β-cells (β-DKO mice). Insulin secretion was impaired in these mice under basal and high-glucose conditions, and glucose disposal was shifted from skeletal muscle to adipose tissue. The β-DKO mice also had increased body fat and adipose tissue macrophage content, elevated plasma interleukin-6 and MCP-1 levels, and decreased skeletal muscle mass. They were not, however, insulin resistant. The adipose tissue expansion and reduced skeletal muscle mass, but not the systemic inflammation or increased adipose tissue macrophage content, were reversed when plasma insulin levels were normalized by insulin supplementation. These studies identify a mechanism by which perturbation of β-cell cholesterol homeostasis and impaired insulin secretion increase adiposity, reduce skeletal muscle mass, and cause systemic inflammation. They further identify β-cell dysfunction as a potential therapeutic target in people at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Expression of Melatonin Receptor Subtype Genes and its Impact on Reproductive Traits in Japanese Quail in Different Lighting Systems
Authors: Naby Walaa S.H. Abd El , Basha Heba A.
Published: October 2016

Melatonin receptors are G-protein coupled receptors which mediate the action of melatonin hormone. In this study, we investigated the effects of two different lighting systems, 23 h L: 1 h D (group I) and 12 h L: 12 h D (group II), on reproductive traits in Japanese Quail ( Coturnix coturnix japonica). As well as the expression pattern of three melatonin receptor subtypes, mRNA in ovaries and testes were analysed using quantitative real time PCR. The results revealed the expression of all three subtypes of melatonin receptors (MNTR1A, MNTR1B and MNTR1C) in ovaries and MNTR1B, MNTR1C in testes in both groups. Further, the expression of melatonin receptors was significantly higher in group II relative to group I. The fold change level of MNTR1C was 6.7 in ovaries and 3.1 in testes in short day light. Altered expression pattern of these genes associated with changes in Japanese Quail reproductive traits, while, Japanese Quail exposed to long day light started egg laying earlier than those in short day light. Egg weight and egg percentage increased significantly in group I compared to group II. The average of relative ovary and testis weight at six weeks of age were declined by 1.72 and 1.64 g, respectively, in group II. It was concluded that, different lighting system induced different expression levels of melatonin receptor genes accompanied with changes in reproductive traits in both sex of Japanese Quail.
Victorian Pearl: Tennysonian Elegy and the Return of a Medieval Poem
Authors: Levine Naomi
Published: October 2016

In 1904, medievalist critic William Henry Schofield declared that the fourteenth-century poem Pearl was not an elegy, overturning an assumption that had persisted since the poem's first publication in 1864. This article focuses on the question of Pearl's genre and its relation to the Victorian literary culture into which the poem was reborn. I argue that Victorian critics did not read Pearl simply as an elegy, but as a Victorian elegy, a genre with a very particular cluster of thematic and formal attributes – and, indeed, a heightened sensitivity to the fit between theme and form. Although Pearl is five centuries older than In Memoriam, its long latency as a manuscript and its subsequent revival fourteen years into the In Memoriam craze created the impression that the medieval poem followed and was somehow derived from the Victorian one. This article proposes that Victorian models of form and genre were powerful enough to work backward. Pearl's late-century reception demonstrates how thoroughly In Memoriam defined Victorian poetics not only by instigating new prosodic fashions, but also by shaping the reading practices with which Victorians approached their literary historical past.