bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Merging Multilateral and Casing Exit Technologies to Increase Wellbore Junction Reliability by Reducing Rig and Openhole Exposure Times
Authors: Guidry Christopher , Pleasants Charles , Sheehan Joseph 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
This paper will reveal the challenges and benefits of merging casing exit, sealbore diverter, and multilateral casing junction technologies into one system that reduces both rig and openhole exposure times, thereby improving reliability, reducing risk, and providing a more cost-effective solution to meet the client's needs.
Typically, a multilateral junction well is accomplished by completing a casing exit with a conventional whipstock and milling bottomhole assembly (BHA), drilling the openhole, removing the whipstock, installing the sealbore diverter, and then integrating the multilateral casing junction to the sealbore diverter at the casing exit window. Accurate lateral and rotational positioning of the sealbore diverter relative to the casing exit window is required in order to properly land the multilateral junction. In addition, the time lapse between the milling-drilling operation and installation of the multilateral casing junction increases the probability of openhole collapse.
A new system combines the attributes of the whipstock and sealbore diverter into one downhole assembly, which allows the whipstock to be retrieved while leaving the sealbore diverter anchored and properly oriented in the wellbore. This removes lateral and rotational orientation concerns, while also eliminating one trip downhole, thus reducing both rig and openhole exposure times. A new geometry milling BHA was also employed to maximize window length to improve ingress and egress of steerable drilling BHAs.
Extensive qualification testing was performed on a horizontal skid to replicate highly deviated well conditions, and those results will be reviewed. Field trials were completed in the second quarter of 2010. Operational results will be included for discussion.
Case History of Innovative Plug and Abandonment Equipment and Processes for Enhanced Safety and Significant Cost Savings
Authors: Olstad Delaney , McCormick John 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Traditional rigless plug-and-abandonment (P&A) operations are time consuming and rely upon methods that are potentially detrimental to personnel, the environment and the assets involved. With rising standards for personnel safety, increased costs and the delicate nature of working in fragile ecosystems, the development of innovative technologies and the application of resources for well abandonment operations is vital to the oil and gas industry. This paper examines the successful deployment of first-to-market intervention and well abandonment equipment to solve P&A problems in a safe and efficient manner on multiple offshore projects.
The focal point of specialized equipment examined in this paper is the pulling and jacking units (Units) which are being used in offshore operations that include intervention and well abandonment to address hurricane damaged platforms as well as aging wells in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM). These Units are designed to rapidly provide a strong foundation for intervention and well abandonment resources to conduct multiple project tasks. Currently there are two hydraulically actuated pulling and jacking units operating in the GoM market. Despite significant challenges, both of these units have demonstrated an excellent safety record and significant cost savings to the operator.
Unit 1 was commissioned in June 2007 and has operated successfully on multiple platforms with no recordable incidents in its three-and-a-half-year history. Unit 2 is currently on its initial project. Since commencing operations in October 2009, it is 108 days ahead of schedule, which equates to a cost savings of $10.8 million to the operator.
These Units provide a complete, innovative project package and their success, along with the use of decommissioning equipment, has created opportunities for all involved to make enhanced safety and significant cost savings a reality.
New Sampling and Testing-While-Drilling Technology, A Safe, Cost-Effective Alternative
Authors: Proett Mark , Eyuboglu Sami , Wilson Jim , Solbakk Tommy 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
In today's drilling environments and economics oil companies demand focus on all aspects of services delivered by the oil field service companies. Safety and efficiency are paramount with cost considerations following closely behind. Reductions of non-productive time are continuously monitored to evaluate service delivery excellence. All economics are impacted by dead or non productive time associated with failed or damaged equipment, logistical complexities, unplanned events (i.e., weather storms), complex reservoirs and drilling trajectories.
A costly yet extremely critical service for the oil companies is the capture of representative fluid samples from the reservoirs they are drilling. This is done today with formation sampling wireline tools (FSWL) lowered into the wellbore days after the drilling of the formation. The timeliness of this information as well as the additional rig costs associated with the capture of this information can be several days or more in additional time for the sampling operation. In many cases, such as in high angled or horizontal wells, the drill pipe is required to convey the wireline to the formations. In these instances the tools cannot be gravity conveyed, which adds cost and additional risk. Because formation sampling while drilling (FSWD) technology has recently been introduced, significant cost savings are possible because the testing and sampling can be performed during the drilling process. It is the objective of this paper to demonstrate an economic model using field examples to evaluate the cost benefit between using FSWL and FSWD fluid sampling operations acquired in deep water fields. Factors considered are the operating costs for FSWL and FSWD, the probability for fishing, reduction in pumping times associated with lower invasion for FSWD and reducing the operational time in high angel wells and the ability to make changes in well construction.
Low Force Shear Rams: The Future is More
Authors: Springett Frank , Ensley Eric , Yenzer Darrin 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
With the increased usage of stronger and tougher tubulars in today's well construction, the ability to shear in the blowout preventor (BOP) without turning to larger operators is an economic necessity. Existing rigs need ways to drill with the high performance steelavailable today without having to grow the size of the BOP.
This paper will discuss the mechanics of shear and how it applies to V Shear technology of yesterday as well as the current Low Force Shear of today and tomorrow. The Low Force Shear technology provides the technology to extend the capabilities of present day BOPs through major improvements in shear ram design. These shears substantially reduce the forces needed to cut tubulars. Lower forces mean that both stronger and larger diameter tubulars can be managed with the same shear operators, adding value to the existing stack and saving the contractor a major outlay for increased BOP capabilities and corresponding handling equipment upgrades.
Low Force Shear technology is based in the philosophy of final shear area reduction. Getting more of the cross sectional area cut prior to the final shear reduces the forces required in that final shear by leaving a smaller remainder cross sectional area to be cut. By puncturing the tubular first and managing the design of the sheared material (chip management), the Low Force Shear begins effectively cutting material earlier and farther before reaching the final shear section.
As the development of the Low Force Shear is optimized for various diameters, material properties, and cross sectional areas, the opportunities expand to increase the range and variety of items in the well bore that can be cut that were not previously thought possible. This capability would greatly increase the security of the well. The future frontier is "Shearing More".
Managing New Technology Introduction to Provide Maximum Benefit
Authors: Hatch Andy , Shepherd Nicol , Diepeveen Peter , Affleck Grant 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
This paper will address the improvements in well placement and drilling efficiency seen during a start-up project where wired drillpipe was introduced as an enabling technology during the project.
By using multiple strands of new technology, in a controlled, managed fashion, Eon Ruhrgas delivered rate of penetration (ROP) increases of 200% and, at the same time, increased net-to-gross by nearly 100%. The delivery of these new technologies will be reviewed along with the culture of learning and constant improvement fostered by the Eon Ruhrgas. The collaborative atmosphere led to an open environment where all the potential issues, risks, and hazards had been discussed and contingencies made to ensure that delivery would not be compromised.
A case study on the drilling of the first three wells on the Babbage field, where significant new technology advances were introduced on the second and third development wells, will outline, in detail, the improvements in performance observed. In summary, the introduction of wired telemetry drillpipe and the use of a downhole-powered rotary steerable system (RSS) ensured optimum trajectory control, ensuring "sweet" spots were identified and delivered, while maintaining an optimum ROP. By using the increased data-carrying capability of the wired drillpipe, it was possible to provide high quality image data, allowing a better understanding of the downhole environment and ensuring that the stratigraphic control was optimized. The optimization was enhanced by 24-hour operations geological support, continuous dip-picking, and geosteering modelling support onshore but live-linked to the wellsite. By using this knowledge in conjunction with a mud motor power section attached to an RSS, it was possible to deliver a step change in drilling performance through the reservoir.
MPD Application with CBHP Technique in Horizontal Well Drilling for the Development of an HPHT and Sour-Environment Gas Field: A Case History
Authors: Gustioro P. , Idi Yusup A. , Syahriza Ghany R. , Purwanto Arga , Radley David 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
From the effect of global energy demands, many oil industries are forced to search for hydrocarbons in more challenging environments. For example, drilling under high pressure-high temperature (HPHT) conditions has become common practice over the past 15 years, and new technologies are being developed to keep up with the need to drill safely and efficiently, minimize formation damage, and improve the production rate.
The decision to drill two highly deviated and horizontal gas wells in the "S" field located in South Sumatera, Indonesia led to a detailed drilling strategy for managing the HPHT - sour gas environment and the narrow pressure window. Subsurface simulation confirmed that these well designs will provide additional gas recovery compared to existing vertical wells and also extend the plateau time production accordingly. The main challenge was to connect two vertical wells into one horizontal that would contribute to 60% of gas recovery from this structure.
Managed pressure drilling (MPD) was the main option for drilling this well in terms of drilling risk, compared to conventional techniques. The MPD method provides better control over formation damage along the horizontal section. Stimulating deep, hot, sour gas wells can be risky, and the chance of gas recovery is less when conventional drilling practices are used. Therefore, MPD coupled with the constant bottomhole pressure (CBHP) technique was chosen to fulfill the technical requirements.
The initial well production test result shows that the MPD technique succeeded in minimizing drilling-related problems along with minimizing formation skin damage. This allowed the well to meet the proposed production rate targeted by the subsurface team.
This paper describes the planning process for designing MPD HPHT drilling in a sour environment well and includes the implementation results and lessons learned from the drilling process.
Learning from Past Treatments and Their Outcome Improves Prediction of In Vivo Response to Anti-HIV Therapy
Authors: Saigo Hiroto , Altmann Andre , Bogojeska Jasmina , Müller Fabian , Nowozin Sebastian , Lengauer Thomas 
Published: March 2011

Infections with the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) are treated with combinations of drugs. Unfortunately, HIV responds to the treatment by developing resistance mutations. Consequently, the genome of the viral target proteins is sequenced and inspected for resistance mutations as part of routine diagnostic procedures for ensuring an effective treatment. For predicting response to a combination therapy, currently available computer-based methods rely on the genotype of the virus and the composition of the regimen as input. However, no available tool takes full advantage of the knowledge about the order of and the response to previously prescribed regimens. The resulting high-dimensional feature space makes existing methods difficult to apply in a straightforward fashion. The machine learning system proposed in this work, sequence boosting, is tailored to exploiting such high-dimensional information, i.e. the extraction of longitudinal features, by utilizing the recent advancements in data mining and boosting.When applied to predicting the latest treatment outcome for 3,759 treatment-experienced patients from the EuResist integrated database, sequence boosting achieved superior performance compared to SVMs with RBF kernels. Moreover, sequence boosting allows an easy access to the discriminative treatment information.Analysis of feature importance values provided by our model confirmed known facts regarding HIV treatment. For instance, application of potent and recently licensed drugs was beneficial for patients, and, conversely, the patient group that was subject to NRTI mono-therapies in the past had poor treatment perspectives today. Furthermore, our model revealed novel biological insights. More precisely, the combination of previously used drugs with their in vivo response is more informative than the information of previously used drugs alone. Using this information improves the performance of systems for predicting therapy outcome.
Structural Reforms and Budget Deficits in a Monetary Union: A Strategic Approach
Authors: Campoy Juan Cristóbal , Negrete Juan C. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
This paper explores the interrelations between budget deficits and structural reforms in a monetary union. The analysis considers the international spillovers generated by both policies. We show that efforts to achieve fiscal policy coordination within the Eurozone reduce member countries' incentives to carry out much-needed structural reforms. As a consequence, this cooperation can turn out to be welfare-reducing if it is not extended to the implementation of structural reforms.
North American Integration and Canadian Foreign Direct Investment
Authors: Waldkirch Andreas , Tekin-Koru Ayça 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
We investigate how economic integration in North America has altered the pattern of foreign direct investment (FDI) to and from Canada. The theoretical analysis suggests that while the Canadian-U.S. free trade agreement should generate less FDI, the addition of Mexico in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) produces the opposite effect. The fall in trade costs results in investment diversion from the U.S. and Canada, yet lower fixed costs may increase FDI even in those countries via an increased incentive to locate production facilities abroad rather than only domestically. Using a difference-in-differences estimator, we find that U.S. FDI in Canada as well as Canadian FDI in the U.S. have expanded disproportionately since NAFTA, suggesting that the latter effect dominates.
Binge Eating, Mood, and Quality of Life in Youth With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors:   The TODAY Study Group
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE
The current study examines the prevalence of binge eating and its association with adiposity and psychosocial functioning in a large, diverse sample of youth with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
In the TODAY study, 678 (mean age 14.0 years; 64.9% girls) of the 704 youth randomized to the study completed a self-report measure of eating disorder symptoms and were categorized as nonovereaters, overeaters, subclinical binge eaters, or clinical binge eaters.

RESULTS
Youth with clinical (6%) and subclinical (20%) levels of binge eating had significantly higher levels and rates of extreme obesity, global eating disorder and depressive symptoms, and impaired quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS
These findings highlight the importance of evaluating youth with type 2 diabetes for the presence of binge eating. Future research is needed to determine the cumulative effects of disordered eating, obesity, and psychosocial distress on adherence to lifestyle change recommendations and longitudinal response to treatment.
Effects of Aging on the Morphology of Rubber-Brass Interfacial Layer
Authors: Ashirgade A. , Harakuni P. B. , Vanooij W. J. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Adhesion between rubber compound and brass-plated steel tire cord is crucial in governing the overall performance of tires. The rubber-brass interfacial adhesion is influenced by the chemical composition and thickness of the interfacial layer. It has been shown that the interfacial layer consists mainly of sulfides and oxides of copper and zinc. This paper discusses the effect of changes in the chemical composition and the structure of the interfacial layers due to addition of adhesion promoter resins. Grazing incidence x-ray diffraction (GIXRD) experiments were run on sulfidized polished brass coupons previously bonded to five experimental rubber compounds. It was confirmed that heat and humidity conditions lead to physical and chemical changes of the rubber-steel tire cord interfacial layer, closely related to the degree of rubber-brass adhesion. Morphological transformation of the interfacial layer led to loss of adhesion after aging. The adhesion promoter resins inhibit unfavorable morphological changes in the interfacial layer, thus stabilizing it during aging and prolonging failure. Tire cord adhesion tests illustrated that the one-component resins improved adhesion after aging using a rubber compound with lower cobalt loading. Based on the acquired diffraction profiles, these resins were also found to impede crystallization of the sulfide layer after aging, leading to improved adhesion. Secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiles and scanning electron microscopy micrographs strongly corroborated the findings from GIXRD. This interfacial analysis adds valuable information to our understanding of the complex nature of the rubber-brass bonding mechanism.
Evaluation of the ability of aqueous black walnut extracts to induce the production of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Hurley David J. , Hurley Katherine A. E. , Galland Kimberly L. , Baker Bradley , Berghaus Londa J. , Moore James N. , Majerle Rita S. K. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Objective—To assess the in vitro capability of aqueous black walnut extracts (BWEs) to generate reactive oxygen species in water-based media ranging in makeup from a simple buffer solution to a complex solution containing serum.
Sample—3 BWEs.
Procedures—Production of reactive oxygen species by BWEs prepared in water or N-hexane was tested in PBS solution, PBS solution containing 0.5% bovine serum albumin and 5mM glucose (PBG), and RPMI-1640 medium (RPMI) containing 10% fetal bovine serum or 10% donor horse serum. Reactive oxygen species production was measured as conversion of nonfluorescent dihydrorhodamine 123 by reactive oxygen species to its fluorescent product, rhodamine-123. Hydrogen peroxide was used as a standard for reactive oxygen species activity.
Results—BWEs prepared in water generated reactive oxygen species in a dose-dependent manner over a 4-hour period, with peak activity detected when the BWEs were added as 10% (vol/vol) of the RPMI. The BWE prepared in N-hexane generated maximal reactive oxygen species activity after incubation for 3 to 4 hours when added at concentrations ranging from 0.3% to 0.5% (vol/vol) of the RPMI. The BWE prepared in water generated the highest fluorescent signal in PBS solution, whereas the BWE prepared in N-hexane generated the highest fluorescent signal in PBG.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The BWEs prepared in water generated a dose-dependent induction of fluorescence in all the water-based solutions tested. These findings indicated that the BWEs, which are used to induce laminitis in horses, generate reactive oxygen species.
Symmetry of hind limb mechanics in orthopedically normal trotting Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Colborne G. Robert , Good Louise , Cozens Lucy E. , Kirk Lisa S. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Objective—To evaluate symmetry of the hind limbs in orthopedically normal trotting dogs.
Animals—19 orthopedically normal Labrador Retrievers with no history of lameness.
Procedures—Retroreflective markers were applied to the hind limb joints, and a 4-camera kinematic system captured positional data at 200 Hz in tandem with force platform data collection while the dogs trotted. Morphometric data were combined with kinematic and force data in an inverse dynamics method to calculate net joint moments and powers at the joints as well as total support moment for each limb. Dogs were identified as right or left dominant when their total support moment was > 10% asymmetric between sides.
Results—10 of the 19 dogs were mechanically dominant in the right hind limb as determined by their total support moments. One dog was left dominant, and the remaining 8 were symmetric. Right-dominant dogs had larger net joint moments at the right hip, tarsal, and metatarsophalangeal joints and a smaller moment at the right stifle joint, compared with values for the left hind limb. The 1 left-dominant dog had the exact opposite findings. Hip and stifle joint moments and powers varied between limbs of the right-dominant and left-dominant groups in the timing of their transition from negative to positive, and power amplitudes varied at the hip, tarsal, and metatarsophalangeal joints but not the stifle joint.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Sound trotting dogs can have asymmetries in limb and joint mechanics. These natural mechanical asymmetries should be taken into account when considering models to evaluate stresses at joints and when considering surgery for cruciate ligament rupture.