bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
One-pot, three-component synthesis of pyranocoumarins containing an aroyl group
Authors: Khodabakhshi Saeed , Jafari Fariba , Marahel Farzaneh , Baghernejad Mojtaba 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
An expeditious method to prepare pyranocoumarins containing an aroyl group by the three-component reaction of 4-hydroxycoumarin with arylglyoxals and malononitrile is described. The reaction is efficiently catalyzed by Mohr’s salt, and the products were obtained in good to excellent yields with high purity. The method is simple, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly.
Exogenous Treatment and Endogenous Factors: Vanishing of Omitted Variable Bias on the Interaction Term
Authors: Nizalova Olena Y. , Murtazashvili Irina 
Published: September 2014

AbstractWhether interested in the differential impact of a particular factor in various institutional settings or in the heterogeneous effect of policy or random experiment, the empirical researcher confronts a problem if the factor of interest is correlated with an omitted variable. This paper presents the circumstances under which it is possible to arrive at a consistent estimate of the mentioned effect. We find that if the source of heterogeneity and omitted variable are jointly independent of policy or treatment, then the OLS estimate on the interaction term between the treatment and endogenous factor turns out to be consistent.
Fluorescence lifetime imaging with near-infrared dyes
Authors: Becker Wolfgang , Shcheslavskiy Vladislav 
Published: September 2014

AbstractNear-infrared (NIR) dyes are used as fluorescence markers in small animal imaging and in diffuse optical tomography. In these applications it is important to know whether the dyes bind to proteins or to other tissue constituents, and whether their fluorescence lifetimes depend on the targets they bind to. Unfortunately, neither the optical beam paths nor the detectors of commonly used in confocal and multiphoton laser scanning microscopes (LSMs) directly allow for excitation and detection of NIR fluorescence. This paper presents three ways of adapting existing LSMs with time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) systems for NIR FLIM: 1) confocal systems with wideband beamsplitters and diode laser excitation, 2) confocal systems with wideband beamsplitters and one-photon excitation by titanium-sapphire lasers, and 3) two-photon systems with optical parametric oscillator (OPO) excitation and non-descanned detection. A number of NIR dyes are tested in biological tissue. All of them show clear lifetime changes depending on the tissue structures they are bound to. We therefore believe that NIR FLIM can deliver supplementary information about the tissue composition and on local biochemical parameters.
Research on Modeling of Propeller in a Turboprop Engine
Authors: Huang Jiaqin , Huang Xianghua , Zhang Tianhong 
Published: September 2014

AbstractIn the simulation of engine-propeller integrated control system for a turboprop aircraft, a real-time propeller model with high-accuracy is required. A study is conducted to compare the real-time and precision performance of propeller models based on strip theory and lifting surface theory. The emphasis in modeling by strip theory is focused on three points as follows: First, FLUENT is adopted to calculate the lift and drag coefficients of the propeller. Next, a method to calculate the induced velocity which occurs in the ground rig test is presented. Finally, an approximate method is proposed to obtain the downwash angle of the propeller when the conventional algorithm has no solution. An advanced approximation of the velocities induced by helical horseshoe vortices is applied in the model based on lifting surface theory. This approximate method will reduce computing time and remain good accuracy. Comparison between the two modeling techniques shows that the model based on strip theory which owns more advantage on both real-time and high-accuracy can meet the requirement.
Efficient CRISPR/Cas9 Plasmids for Rapid and Versatile Genome Editing inDrosophila
Authors: Gokcezade Joseph , Sienski Grzegorz , Duchek Peter 
Published: September 2014

AbstractThe CRISPR-associated RNA-guided nuclease Cas9 has emerged as a powerful tool for genome engineering in a variety of organisms. To achieve efficient gene targeting rates in Drosophila, current approaches require either injection of in vitro transcribed RNAs or injection into transgenic Cas9-expressing embryos. We report a simple and versatile alternative method for CRISPR-mediated genome editing in Drosophila using bicistronic Cas9/sgRNA expression vectors. Gene targeting with this single-plasmid injection approach is as efficient as in transgenic nanos-Cas9 embryos and allows the isolation of targeted knock-out and knock-in alleles by molecular screening within 2 months. Our strategy is independent of genetic background and does not require prior establishment of transgenic flies.
The Effects of Demography and Long-Term Selection on the Accuracy of Genomic Prediction with Sequence Data
Authors: MacLeod Iona M , Hayes Ben J , Goddard Michael E 
Published: September 2014

AbstractThe use of dense SNPs to predict the genetic value of an individual for a complex trait is often referred to as “genomic selection” in livestock and crops, but is also relevant to human genetics to predict, for example, complex genetic disease risk. The accuracy of prediction depends on the strength of linkage disequilibrium (LD) between SNPs and causal mutations. If sequence data were used instead of dense SNPs, accuracy should increase because causal mutations are present, but demographic history and long-term negative selection also influence accuracy. We therefore evaluated genomic prediction, using simulated sequence in two contrasting populations: one reducing from an ancestrally large effective population size (Ne) to a small one, with high LD common in domestic livestock, while the second had a large constant-sized Ne with low LD similar to that in some human or outbred plant populations. There were two scenarios in each population; causal variants were either neutral or under long-term negative selection. For large Ne, sequence data led to a 22% increase in accuracy relative to ∼600K SNP chip data with a Bayesian analysis and a more modest advantage with a BLUP analysis. This advantage increased when causal variants were influenced by negative selection, and accuracy persisted when 10 generations separated reference and validation populations. However, in the reducing Ne population, there was little advantage for sequence even with negative selection. This study demonstrates the joint influence of demography and selection on accuracy of prediction and improves our understanding of how best to exploit sequence for genomic prediction.
Produced Water Management - Nimr Water Treatment project
Authors: Mathew Benoie P 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
One of the largest industrial constructed wetland systems in the world was commissioned by Janurary 2011 to sustainably manage 45,000 m3/day of produced water from the Nimr oilfields in Oman. Further to which, an extension to the wetland system (additional 120 hectares) is being constructed & commissioned by November 2012 to increase the capacity of the plant to 95,000 m3/day. This natural treatment system consists of a passive oil-water separator, 354 hectares of surface flow wetlands and 300 hectares of evaporation ponds and has been instrumental in reducing the amount of hydrocarbon polluted produced water being disposed to the deep well aquifers. The Nimr Water Treatment Plant (Nimr WTP), being a gravity flow system uses minimal fossil fuel for its operation and therefore results in an enormous saving in energy consumption compared to the conventional, energy-intensive disposal method of pumping the water using DWD pumps. Maximizing the use of locally available and naturally occurring materials for construction, treating and reusing oil contaminated soil from the oilfields and minimizing electricity consumption has decreased the carbon footprint, greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impacts of the oilfield, thus helping to protect people and the environment. The average operational power consumption for running the NWTP was only 0.06 kWh per m3 of produced water treated, compared to 3.6 – 5.5 kWh/m3 for the deep well disposal that has traditionally been used. This equates to an energy saving of 98.3 – 98.9% for managing the produced water and represents a huge saving in energy costs, fossil fuel consumption and subsequent green-house gas emissions making the project not only environmentally friendly but also economically successful for the oil producer. The wetlands and ponds also provide a valuable habitat for migratory birds, with close to 100 different bird species having been identified at the site to date.
Qatargas Pulse-Chlorination System
Authors: Khan Farhan A. , Al-Sulaiti Khalifa A. , Polman Harry 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
To maintain reliable and efficient operation of seawater cooling water systems, the typical industry practice is chlorination, generally through continuous dosing and periodic shock dosing. Due to concerns regarding potential environmental effects on the local marine environment, the Qatar Ministry of Environment (MoE) has set the residual chlorine limit in cooling seawater discharges at 0.05 mg/L. To comply with these regulatory requirements, Qatargas has implemented Pulse-Chlorination (P-C) as its antifouling strategy.
P-C is a cost-effective intermittent dosing regimen recognized as the European Union (EU) Best Available Technology (BAT) for biofouling mitigation of once-through cooling seawater systems. It combines optimal fouling control with minimal chlorine discharge, while retaining safe and reliable plant operations. It has been successfully implemented worldwide through on-site implementation and field tests at industries ranging from oil and gas facilities to conventional and nuclear power plants.
The implementation of P-C at Qatargas has been successful, with significant improvements in both fouling mitigation and substantial reductions in the discharge of total residual oxidants (TRO/residual chlorine). In 2009, Qatargas' implementation of P-C was recognized with an award in the ‘Excellence in Environmental Technology’ category at the RESCO Offshore Arabia Conference.
This paper will present the Qatargas chlorination regime and highlight how P-C enhanced environmental and operational performance of Qatargas' seawater cooling water system.
TENORM risk assessment in an oil industry
Authors: Fresca Fantoni R.. , Janis B.. , Colombo G.. , Rizzio E.. , Gelormini A.. , Macrì S.. 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
The accumulation of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials is a well-known phenomenon in the upstream oil sector since a long time: production water flowing into the production and treatment plants together with crude oil and gas might transports natural radionuclides from the reservoir to the surface and chemical and physical mechanisms can produce their deposition inside processing equipment. Presence of TENORM might accounts for a significant radiological hazard for the human health and in some cases requires monitoring during routine, maintenance and decommissioning activities.
In the downstream oil sector however, the volume of stratum water that enters the refineries together with the crude is very small (maximum 1-2 % of total product), nevertheless in certain points of production plants deposition of TENORM has been observed.
A multi-step approach has been developed to manage TENORM (Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material) risks in refinery plants, in compliance with Italian regulations and international guidelines.
The first step to assess the radiological TENORM risk in refineries consists in a on-field survey in a plant, that allows to determine, together with the knowledge of the production process, the points most likely subjected to potential accumulation of TENORM. Next steps consist of an extensive radiometric survey, sampling and radiometric analysis of matrices potentially affected by TENORM, evaluation of radiological risks, definition of criteria for the releasing of materials and waste, development of radiation protection procedures at workplace and workers training.
Regional Scale Atmospheric Transportation Modelling
Authors: Coleman Tristan 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Air dispersion and deposition modelling is an accepted mathematical technique to predict and quantify impacts to ambient air quality from the petroleum industry. Mainstream, established dispersion models are also used to determine appropriate stack heights for stationary equipment such as heaters, turbines and flares, as well as support the selection of emission controls or ‘abatement’.
Atmospheric modelling of industrial emissions are not commonly assessed for distances over 50km, beyond which many ‘off the shelf’ modelling systems provide limited accuracy. Factors that are important for long range transport modelling include variability of weather conditions within the area being simulated, and chemical and physical processes that may affect the concentration of the pollutant under investigation.
For regional scale modelling, a good description of the evolution in time and space of a particle or puff over distances of hundreds to thousands of km's is important. For modelling on this scale, the only realistic approach is to use detailed numerical weather prediction or analyses data; for simulations on a local scale it is often justified to use site or area-specific measurement data or even assumed, simplified weather conditions.
Regional scale modelling systems are often used to look at national and international transportation of airborne particles and gases released into the atmosphere. The list of potential applications is long and varied, but this type of system can be used to:
Back-trace sources of pollution experienced at a site or region Identify long-range impacts of localised emergency or disaster scenarios Perform regional impact assessment studies
Within this paper, the author discusses the application of Regional Scale Transportation Modelling Systems and, in particular, potential uses within the petroleum industry. This paper also includes a discussion, with a supporting case study, around the application of regional modelling techniques not commonly seen within the Middle East petroleum industry.
Innovative System to Promote Safe Driving Behaviors: a Case Study from the Middle East
Authors: Zidan Ahmed , Lopez Juan Carlos 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
After successfully establishing a global journey management center (GJMC) for its operations in the Middle East, an oilfield services company implemented a driving point system that uses real-time data from driver monitoring systems in company vehicles. The system measures driving performance so that the GJMC can quickly provide feedback to drivers and initiate appropriate driving safety actions.
This paper describes how the system shares features of driving point programs such as those used by driver licensing authorities in Europe that demerit drivers as a consequence of road traffic offenses. The system developed by the company also includes recognition of drivers who consistently demonstrate safe behavior.
In January 2013, every driver in the company's Middle East operations was allocated 12 points in a personal driving account. Any driving offenses are documented and verified in the system, with the driver and their managers receiving notification via a short message service (SMS) text stating the type of driving offense, the number of points lost, and the points remaining. The driver has 72 hours to challenge the decision. After 12 months, the main unsafe driving traits identified by the system have been over speeding, hard acceleration, heavy breaking and driver fatigue.
When a driver loses all of the allocated 12 points, the GJMC restricts the person's driving rights of company vehicles until an improvement plan is documented by the driver's manager. Drivers can recover points if they demonstrate adherence to expected driving safety behaviors. Drivers who maintain all of their 12 points during a full year period receive an official recognition letter from their business unit manager.
The paper discusses the improvements in several behavior based indicators and the reduction of automotive incidents achieved since the introduction of the driver point system in the 14 countries covered by the company's Middle East GJMC.
Development of Oiled Wildlife Preparedness and Response Management Systems and Their Integration with oil Spill Contingency Planning and oil Spill Response
Authors: Morgan Andrew , Pearce Mitch , Bellingham Ian , Lewis Anna , Pendoley Kellie 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Commercial and social media is accessible globally and is always fixated on the impact an oil spill has on marine animals and the environment. Combined with the cost of cleanup and recovery, public perception and a lack of preparedness and operational response structure arrangements by the operator can impact severely on the financial viability of an oil and gas business. This paper outlines how to set up and implement an Oiled Wildlife Response (OWR) and how preparedness is integrated into oil spill planning and response. Traditionally, OWR relied on ‘not for profit’ organisations funded through donations. The development of wildlife carer networks and their links to industry, government and non-government organisations (NGOs) has evolved from this. More recently, coordinating organisations have taken on the further development of OWR. A good OWR management system requires reliable information on the environment and ecosystems at risk and integration of key wildlife response personnel and resources across the spill response command structure. This is demonstrated in recent Australian regulatory changes, which now require operators to prove they have the capacity to respond to an oil spill through valid contracts with service providers. A good OWR plan should meet industry standards for risk assessment, management, and emergency response. The plan must demonstrate that risk to fauna during hazing and deterrence and recovery and handling is As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Appropriately qualified wildlife handling personnel should always be identified and available for deployment during an emergency response. The plan should be underpinned by detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for use of equipment and should integrate the biological aspects of the response with Health and Safety requirements, a Hazard Register inclusive of Major Accident Events, Safety Critical Equipment and the associated performance standards. Response equipment availability should align with immediate ‘first strike’ requirements together with expected escalation of response scenarios developed around best practice in marine wildlife interactions and use of equipment. Activation of oiled wildlife teams must be scalable and commensurate with the size of the spill, development of spill containment and deflection strategies by industry, and fauna at risk. A reduction in reactive OWR response and subsequent recovery times and an increase in positive public perception of oil spill response will limit the impact of the cost of an oil spill on the financial viability of an oil and gas business.
ASP Flooding Produced Water Management: Evaluation, Disposal and Reuse
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhihua Wang , Xianli Li , Xinpeng Le , Xiaotong Wang 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Alkali/surfactant/polymer (ASP) flooding technology has become an important way to enhance the oil recovery and improve the recoverable reserves. However, in the large-scale application, the disposal and reuse of ASP produced water meet lots of difficulties and challenges, especially with the water cut rising of the benefited oil wells and the appearance of polymer, alkali and surfactant in sequence in produced liquid. Many traditional disposal methods are suffering double restriction of purifying effect and economical efficiency, also, the discharge of the disposed water is faced with a variety of pressure, such as facilities pollution, healthy and environmental threat. Therefore, environmental friendly disposal and beneficial reuse of produced water have become one of the technical bottlenecks for the promotion of ASP flooding. A laboratory investigation of evaluating the microcosmic emulsification properties of ASP flooding produced water was carried out recently. A combined disposal process for the water was presented and assessed. The feasibility of produced water reuse for preparing polymer solution during the chemical flooding oilfield development at high water-cut stage was validated.
The results show that there are surplus negative charges on ASP flooding produced water interface. The oil droplet size in the water diminishes with the increase of the chemicals, and particles are easy absorbed on oil-water interface to further prevent the coalescence of oil droplets. The sludge accumulation was decreased more than 70.0% due to the physical comprehensive effects of the combined disposal process including sedimentation with aeration, lateral flow coalescence, dissolved air flotation and micro-flocculation suspended sludge blanket filtration. The power and agent expense was reduced 60.0% and secondary pollution was decreased remarkably. The produced water after disposal could not only meet the re-injection standard of high permeability reservoir, but also can be reused to preparing polymer solution, and the viscosity loss control ability is desirable. The treatment option presented in this paper would contribute more to establishing a health, safety and environment (HSE) system.
Water: Regulatory and Community Impacts
Authors: Leatherby Lauren , Wagner Natalie , Grabski Lauren , Bonno David , Justiniano David 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
As water conservation becomes an increasingly prevalent issue, both in the oilfield and in other industries, many governments are creating new regulations to control the treatment, disposal, and storage of produced water, as well as the regulations around water sourcing. As often happens with new regulatory requirements, the unintended consequences of the regulations can be sometimes beneficial, and sometimes worse than the original problem they were designed to mitigate. The importance of investigating the effects of regulatory requirements before implementation cannot be overstated.
This paper outlines several examples of the unintended consequences, both positive and negative, of recent regulations designed to improve water conservation. Specifically, we review water storage and treatment challenges set by Australian regulation before the large-scale development of coalbed methane.
In contrast, an overview of the regional rules, diverse water sources, and quality requirements developed for the western US unconventionals boom is provided. Additional insights regarding water use in the Middle East and long-term field development strategies for managing water for stimulation and production are discussed.
Throughout, this paper investigates and compares, through case studies, how the International Standard Organization (ISO) 14001 Environmental Management Standard can be effectively used to provide guidance for appropriate regulations, while maintaining the quality and standards representative of the oil and gas industry.