Structural Closure Research Articles

Engineered autologous nasal cartilage for repair of nasal septal perforations - a case series.

This phase I clinical trial assessed the use of autologous nasal chondrocyte tissue-engineered cartilage (N-TEC) for functional repair of nasal septal perforations (NSP). The most widely used technique to treat NSP, namely interposition grafting with a polydioxanone (PDS) plate combined with a deep temporal fascia (DTF) graft, is still suboptimal towards patient satisfaction and revision rates. Patients (n=5, all female, age range: 23-54 years) had a 0.5-2.0cm diameter NSP. N-TEC was manufactured by expansion and 3D culture of autologous nasal septum chondrocytes into Chondro-Gide® collagen membranes. N-TEC was then shaped intraoperatively and enveloped in the harvested DTF before suturing it into the NSP. Safety (primary outcome) was assessed by the number of serious adverse reactions (SAR) until 12 months. Secondary outcomes included feasibility, assessed by surgical graft manipulation, and efficacy, assessed using subjective scoring (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation, NOSE, and Visual Analogue Scale, VAS, scores) and objective breathing function tests. Structural closure of NSP after 12 months was defined using endoscopy and computed tomography (CT) scans. NSP treatment by N-TEC implantation was safe and feasible, as no SAR and no challenge in graft manipulation was recorded for any of the patients. One year postoperative, subjective scoring improved in all patients, unless already optimal (average improvement of 23 and 28.6 points out of 100 respectively for NOSE and VAS scores). Objective respiratory function overall confirmed - with the exception of one case - the observations above (average improvement of 172 ml/s). NSP were closed and the mucosae completely healed in three patients. Autologous N-TEC is a valid treatment for NSP and warrants further clinical tests.

Gigaton commercial-scale carbon storage and mineralization potential in stacked Columbia River basalt reservoirs

This work presents a detailed supercritical CO2 storage resource estimation for the stacked basalt reservoirs in the Grande Ronde Basalt of the Columbia River Basalt Group in eastern Washington and Oregon. The assessment aims to derisk the commercialization potential of geologic carbon storage in basalt by leveraging both structural and mineralization trapping of CO2 in basalt. The structural closures formed by anticlinal ridges and synclinal valleys in Yakima Fold Belt are excellent physical traps to accommodate injected supercritical CO2. Rigorous hydraulic testing, well logs and simulation results from the Wallula Basalt Pilot #1 well showed the occurrence of 17 suitable permeable injection zones (up to 2,496 mD) intercalated with dense seals (∼2.6E-10 mD) in the Grand Ronde Basalt. In addition, geochemical studies showed fast reactions between supercritical CO2 and dissolved basalt minerals to form stable carbonates. Our calculation indicates up to 40 gigatons (P90) of mineralization storage resources exist in the Grande Ronde Basalt reservoirs.

2D Seismic Structural Study of the Area Between Halfaya, Noor and Amara Oil Fields, Southeastern Iraq

The study area is located in the Missan government in southeastern Iraq, including oilfields (Halfaya, Noor, and Amara). The study area is about 966 Km2. Based on the 2D seismic reflection interpretation, well-logs data (sonic and estimated density logs), and synthetic seismogram of well Am-2, two horizons were identified and picked (Nahr Umr and Shuaiba) within the Lower Cretaceous age. For the picked reflectors, two-way time and depth maps were created to display the subsurface's structural makeup. The structural interpretation shows two structural axes in the study area. The first is the Halfaya-Amara axis, whose direction is WNW-ESE corresponding with the Amara structure. This axis deviates southeast due to the tectonic effect at the Halfaya structure. Another tectonic force affected the Halfaya structure in the northwest-southeast direction leading to the appearance of a branch of a convex extension towards the north from the middle of the Halfaya structure, completing this branch to a structural closure as nose towards the Noor structure in the northern part of the study area. The second axis of Halfaya-Noor oilfields trending northwest-southeast direction.

Mapping hydrodynamic structure with sparse or no well data

Hydrodynamic traps are usually mapped using well pressure data to transform structural depth maps, but if well data are sparse then hydrodynamic maps produced this way may have large uncertainties. An alternative approach that does not rely on well data is described here, utilizing simplified, locally planar representation of the potentiometric surface. Ranges of hydraulic gradient magnitudes and azimuths representing different potentiometric surface orientations, together with a range of possible density contrasts between the flowing and trapped fluids, define a three-dimensional array, termed here ‘hydrodynamic space’. This array can be constrained and simplified by reasonable assumptions and the introduction of an additional new concept that combines the hydraulic gradient magnitude and fluid density contrast into a single parameter termed ‘potentiometric transform’. Ranges of these parameters yield a set of hydrodynamic structural maps. The fineness of sampling the hydrodynamic space parameters is limited only by the resources available to support the workflow. The array can be automatically assessed in terms of hydrodynamic trap volumes by applying a structural closure algorithm that isolates and characterizes dip-closed structure. Closure volumes across the map set are ranked by spatial distribution analysis that informs exploration programs relevant to any subsurface fluid management application. The method is described for the first time here and illustrated by application to a real structural dataset.

Electrospun Silicon Dioxide/poly(vinylidene fluoride) Nanofibrous Membrane Comprising a Skin Multicore-Shell Nanostructure as a New High-Heat-Resistant Separator for Lithium-Ion Polymer Batteries.

Porous silicon dioxide (SiO2)/poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVdF), SiO2/PVdF, and fibrous composite membranes were prepared by electrospinning a blend solution of a SiO2 sol-gel/PVdF. The nanofibers of the SiO2/PVdF (3/7 wt. ratio) blend comprised skin and nanofibrillar structures which were obtained from the SiO2 component. The thickness of the SiO2 skin layer comprising a thin skin layer could be readily tuned depending on the weight proportions of SiO2 and PVdF. The composite membrane exhibited a low thermal shrinkage of ~3% for 2 h at 200 °C. In the prototype cell comprising the composite membrane, the alternating current impedance increased rapidly at ~225 °C, and the open-circuit voltage steeply decreased at ~170 °C, almost becoming 0 V at ~180 °C. After being exposed at temperatures of >270 °C, its three-dimensional network structure was maintained without the closure of the pore structure by a melt-down of the membrane.

The Effect Of Growth Opportunity and Profitability On Company Value On The Stock Exchange Indonesia (BEI) Period 2018-2022

Based on data from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Indonesia is the country with the most influential manufacturing industry value in the world, but from the other side, based on data, the growth of the manufacturing industry in Indonesia experienced a significant decline in 2020, this is due to the condition of the closure of the capital structure and the impact The Covid-19 pandemic has weakened the value of investment in manufacturing industry companies, which has an impact on growth opportunities. Apart from that, the profitability of manufacturing industry companies has weakened, potentially leading to a decline in company value. Therefore, the aim of this research is to understand the factors that influence the value of manufacturing industry companies. Through capital structure as an intervention, the data used in this research is secondary data used in the form of annual financial report data of manufacturing companies for the 2018-2022 period obtained from the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) website, namely www.idx.co.id with the sample size using Purposive sampling is based on criteria so that from 236 companies we get a sample of 115 companies. The analysis method used is descriptive statistical analysis, panel data regression analysis, and Sobel test using e-views version 10. Analysis of manufacturing company data on the 2018-2022 BEI shows that the effect is significant. direct negative impact on capital structure.

Highway tunnel crossing fault zones with water-rich highly weathered granite

This study focuses on the Tianshengqiao Tunnel on the Linshuang Expressway in Lincang City, Yunnan Province, China. By combining the transient electromagnetic method, and geological radar geophysical exploration methods, joint fissures and water abundance in the surrounding rock of the tunnel were predicted. Simultaneously, combined with engineering disasters, such as water inrush and seepage in the surrounding rock during engineering practice, a numerical calculation model for the grouting reinforcement of granite mixed-rock tunnels considering the construction process was established using finite element software. The results indicated that the joint fissures in the tunnel were well-developed and exhibited a disorderly trend, showing an open shape. Accompanied by high humidity in the excavated rock mass, the overall water outflow is mainly as strands, with a large amount of water outflow, especially at the arch crown or left arch waist. The difference in the settlement values of the surrounding rocks at different depths within the grouting circle of the tunnel was relatively small, whereas that outside the grouting circle was significant. The larger the scope of the tunnel grouting circle, the smaller the overall deformation of the surrounding rock after the closure of the tunnel support structure.

Prospects for Geological Storage of CO2 in Carbonate Formations of the Adriatic Offshore

Croatia has both significant CO2 emissions from the point sources and a history of oil and gas exploration, and this is why the CCS technology surfaced as a viable solution for curbing CO2 emissions on a national level. Since approximately half of emissions from the stationary industrial sources occur along the Adriatic coastline, the entire offshore area became an exploration target. Regional studies revealed the potential storage plays, one of which is in the aquifer of the Mesozoic carbonate complex with dual porosity extending all along the Croatian offshore area. Three structures were chosen in its central part–Klara, Kate and Perina. For the first two, the models were constructed based on the data from old exploration wells and a regional structural map, while for the Perina structure, a new seismic interpretation was added to better characterise its properties. It came out that the Kate structure appears to be the most prospective in general (45 Mt), with neighbouring Klara as the second (39 Mt), while the initially promising Perina (7 Mt) turned out to be of far lesser importance. The Perina structure case is an example that new seismic interpretation can reduce the capacity estimate if it reveals certain limiting factors, in this case, the limitation of structural closure.

Isopach Map of Mishrif Formation in Nasiriya Oil Field by Using 3D Seismic Data

The current study included interpretations of the three-dimensional seismic Data for the Nasiriya oil field implemented by the Oil exploration company in 2010 with a planned surface coverage area of 1273 km². The Nasiriyah field is located in southern Iraq within the Dhi Qar Governorate, about (10) km northwest of the governorate center (Nasiriyah), and the Muthanna governorate is located in the northwestern part of the field, which is approximately (15) km west of the governorate center (Samawah). The information from the wells (well velocity survey, formation depths, logs) was relied upon and entered into the seismic cube data to capture the top of the Mishrif Formation. In addition is to pick the top of the Rumaila Formation, which represents the bottom of the Mishrif Formation. The top and bottom Mishrif reflectors were picked, interpreted, and tracked within the region. The reflector's two-way time (TWT), velocity, and depth maps showed structural closure features in the center of the area, and the general direction of the closure is thenorthwest–southeast. The structural maps showed a general tendency towards the northeast. The isopach map showed that the thickness values of the Mishrif Formation increased to the west and northwest while the thickness decreased toward the east and southeast.

Fluorescence-guided thoracoscopic surgery for postoperative chylothorax: A technical note with video vignette

TechniqueThe surgical management for high-output postoperative chylothorax typically necessitates ligation of the thoracic duct (TD) above the leak site and/or sealing the leak with a clip. However, pinpointing these structures during subsequent surgeries can be challenging due to their variable course and the presence of traumatized tissues surrounding the leak area. In response to this, we have developed a novel, fluorescence-guided technique that significantly enhances intraoperative identification of the leak point and the TD. This method was applied in the case of a 52-year-old man suffering from refractory chylothorax following a previous lung cancer surgery. This study documents the surgical procedure and includes a video vignette for a comprehensive understanding. ResultsA bilateral inguinal lymph node injection of saline (10 mL), guided by ultrasound and containing 2.5 mg/mL indocyanine green (ICG), was administered 20 min prior to surgery. During thoracoscopic exploration, the leak point was precisely pinpointed in the right paratracheal area by transitioning from bright light to fluorescent mode. The TD was clearly identified, and upon ligation, there was no further leakage of fluorescent lymph, indicating a successful closure of the lymphatic structure. The surgery proceeded uneventfully, and the patient was able to resume oral intake on the third postoperative day. There was no evidence of recurring symptoms, leading to his discharge. ConclusionThe intralymphatic injection of ICG offers a rapid visualization of the TD's anatomy and can effectively pinpoint the leak point, even amidst traumatized tissues. Moreover, it provides prompt feedback on the efficacy of ligation.

Abstract 5401: Vasculogenic mimicry: A three-step progress to form lumen-containing and fluid-conducting tubular structures in vitro

Abstract Introduction: Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is a clinical phenomenon by which cancer cells can form vessel-like structures in an endothelial-free (CD31-) fashion. VM presence in tumors correlates to poor patient prognosis. In our laboratory we have established an in vitro model where cancer cells from either cell lines or primary culture form lumen-lined and fluid-conducting tubular structures when grown on laminin-rich Matrigel over a four-day period. Given the duration of formation and the complexity of these structures, we hypothesize that VM in vitro is a multistep process, where each stage requires spatio-temporal organization of adhesive proteins, stemness and EMT (suggesting the need for epithelial to mesenchymal transition) signaling. Methods: Using our in vitro models, we analyzed by siRNA, immunostaining and live cell imaging with Airyscan the distinct phases and the corresponding spatio-temporal organization of selected proteins. Results: We show that VM in vitro has three distinct phases that are characterized by (1) alignment and migration, (2) contraction, proliferation and bridge formation, and (3) tubular structure closure and lumen formation. These steps require spatio-temporal distribution of ZEB1 and E-cadherin (suggesting gain and loss of epithelial to mesenchymal transition), the presence of Integrin β1 and laminin 111, and the distinct localization of Laminin and CD44. Conclusion: A better characterization of VM may lead to the identification of a clinically useful marker to predict poor patient prognosis and shed light on a druggable pathway to treat this subgroup of aggressive cancer. Citation Format: Gareth I. Owen, Nicolle Santander, Gabriel Mingo, Pamela Gonzalez, Valentina George, Nicole Babbitt, Alejandra Espinioza, Isidora Vega, Cristobal Canales, Carolina Ibañez, Roger Gejman, Juan Carlos Roa, Francisco Nualart, Andrea Ravasio, Cristina Bertocchi. Vasculogenic mimicry: A three-step progress to form lumen-containing and fluid-conducting tubular structures in vitro [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5401.

Structural and seismic attribute analysis of the Paleocene carbonate reservoir from the Balkassar Field, Potwar Plateau, Pakistan

The structural and seismic properties of the Paleocene carbonate reservoir are re-evaluated, using 3D seismic data multi-attributes, to improve reservoir prediction accuracy rarely documented earlier. This study highlights a number of relevant post-stack seismic attributes for understanding the structural setup and seismic properties of a carbonate reservoir. The structural analysis was carried out using seismic interpretation, combined with multi-attribute analysis for prospect actualization and generation of a 3D structural model to determine the structural aspect. The structural interpretation reveals the presence of faults and an asymmetrical anticlinal structure demonstrating a four-way closure, confirming compressional tectonics. The high amplitude anomaly (-6 to 12) combined with the RMS attribute (23 to 32) suggests bright spots in the Paleocene carbonate reservoir and gas saturated zone, the variance attribute (0.05 to 0.03) highlights the presence of two major faults, and the lower instantaneous frequency demonstrates the presence of hydrocarbons. The attribute results indicate that the Lockhart Limestone possesses good reservoir potential as revealed by DHI (bright spot), gas saturated zone and a trapping mechanism supported by four-way structure closure in the region and can help to understand analogous carbonate reservoirs in similar geological settings around the world.

A conceptual CO2 fill-and-spill mega-fairway in the UK Southern North Sea: A new approach to identify and optimise large-scale underground carbon storage (CCS)

This work explores the subsurface CO2 storage potential in UKCS Quadrants 43–44, by integrating 3D seismic interpretation, regional wellbore data and CO2 migration modelling. We show 11 Bunter Sandstone domes linked together in a fill-and-spill “Bunter Mega-Fairway”. These traps host a theoretical storage capacity of 8.4 Gt CO2 (≈3–4 times the filled-to-spill theoretical capacity of the proposed Endurance storage site), while lessening CO2 leakage risks.Within the mega-fairway, the Triassic Bunter Sandstone reservoir shows a P10-P90 thickness of 78–219 m, along with moderate-high porosities (11–28 %) and permeabilities (9–669 mD). A regionally-connected reservoir is suggested from spatially consistent, near-hydrostatic aquifer pressure gradients (≈0.51 psi/ft). The top-seal is laterally effective and structural closures are lower than the CO2 columns necessary to breach the seal.At the mega-fairway storage depths, CO2 would inhabit the reservoir as a supercritical fluid, enabling it to naturally migrate buoyantly from one trap to another, away from strategically-placed injector sites. Through the integration of migration spill-point modelling, multi-physics seabed monitoring nodes and fill-and-spill injection management, the maximum storage capacity could be achieved, while alleviating CO2 leakage hazards and potentially decreasing the number of injector wells.Exploiting fill-and-spill fairways for CCS is a new concept with vast worldwide applicability.

Geologic causatives of the stratigraphic and structural heterogeneties of Baharyia formation, based on their seismic interpretation, Razzak field, Western Desert, Egypt

Evaluation of seismic attributes and seismic reflection characteristics analysis of Razzak Field was undertaken by subdividing the study area rock units. There are four seismo-facies units of varying parameters from top to bottom. These units are comparable to the Apollonia and Khoman Formations; the Abu-Roash Formation; Baharyia Formation and Alamein Formation. The seismo-facies unit 1 of the Apollonia and Khoman Formations reveal parallel to sub-parallel layering, with thickness increases northwards. The lithological distribution consists of limestone with minor clay intercalations with facies varying from middle neritic graded to outer neritic. Unit 2 of the Abu-Roash Formation shows divergent layering, with a thickness increasing gradually northwards and eastwards. The lithological distribution shows predominance of carbonate, sandstone occurring in minor portions and laterally graded into shale with littoral facies ranging to inner and middle neritic facies. Unit 3 of the Baharyia Formation reveals chaotic and oblique layering with a time thickness increases towards northeast and southwest parts, the lithological distribution exhibited sand and shale with minor limestone streaks, with facies varied changed from continental to inner-middle neritic, unit 4 of the Alamein Formation shows variation from parallel-subparallel orientation to oblique and chaotic with thickness increasing towards northwards and eastwards, the lithological distribution exhibited dolomitic limestone with minor streaks of limestone with facies varied from middle neritic facies to outer neritic and bathyal. Finally, the results are integrated to build up a seismo-stratigraphic model of the evaluated area of the northwestern Desert of Egypt. Seismic interpretation involves the construction of structure contour maps, in terms of time and depth, on the tops of the Apollonia, Abu-Roash, Baharyia and Alamein Formations. These maps show three structural closures, due to folding, that are dissected by NW–SE faults, analysis of relevant structural and stratigraphic seismic attributes such as root-mean-square amplitude, local structural dip, variance, ISO frequency component, sweetness and acoustic impedance average energy applied on reservoir tops, to enhance the visibility of faults, geological interpretation and the physical parameters of the subsurface related to lithology and stratigraphy for reservoir characterization. Finally, the results obtained are used to construct a seismic structural model. Integration of seismic and stratigraphic data is used to build a geological model of the northwestern Desert of Egypt.

Multi-loop Nesting Algorithm and Response Analysis of Cable Forces of Long Span Cantilever Cast Arch Bridges during Construction

The existing calculation process of the cantilever cast arch-cable force has a poor fit with the actual process, leading to the lack of good parameter corrections. To improve the overall control quality of the linearity and stress of the arch ring, there is an urgent need for a solution method with higher flexibility and better practicability. Combined with the existing research results, this study proposes a multi-loop nesting algorithm. The algorithm decomposes the whole construction process into individual subsystem control modules, and sets the control indexes of stress and displacement in individual control modules. Subsequently, the analysis and calculation of other modules are completed according to the construction sequence until structure closure. Finally, we determine whether the overall construction control indexes meet the requirements. According to the findings, the results obtained by this algorithm meet the design requirements, and its applicability is verified. Compared with other algorithms, the algorithm is more effective in controlling the stress and deformation of the arch ring during the construction process. This algorithm solves the dispersion between structural systems in previous calculations and has more flexible parameter and control index settings. Additionally, the calculation control idea of this algorithm can be further extended to the construction control of the “cable-beam” cantilever structure.

Stratigraphic architecture of the synrift interval in the northern Pletmos Basin, offshore South Africa

A revised analysis of the stratigraphy and the order of deposition in the Synrift interval is conducted for the northern Pletmos Basin, offshore South Africa. The study area, spanning 14,330 km2, includes the Superior and Plettenberg grabens. By employing new techniques in seismic stratigraphy, a more accurate identification of sedimentary layers in the basin was achieved, taking into account their seismic characteristics, internal structure, and termination points. The findings primarily focus on two distinct phases of geological activity known as Synrift I and Synrift II. The Kimmeridgian interval of Synrift I has not been extensively explored, and is believed to exhibit petroleum potential, as indicated by the presence of oil and gas shows and the distinctive seismic features of structural closures. Within the Synrift interval, ten separate sequences were identified, each displaying different seismic characteristics and environments of deposition. By utilizing these predicted depositional environments, numerous potential drilling sites were identified within the Synrift interval. Furthermore, it was determined that these sites were supplied with hydrocarbons from three hypothesized source intervals. Consequently, this research enhances our understanding of the potential for hydrocarbon reserves in the northern Pletmos Basin.

A multi-disciplinary approach for trap identification in the Southern Meleiha Area, North Western Desert, Egypt: integrating seismic, well log, and fault seal analysis

The southern Meleiha concession, situated within the development encouragement areas of the Agiba Petroleum Company between Matrouh Basin and Shushan basin, spans approximately 700 km2. This study examined late Cretaceous strata to improve trap identification in the Bahariya, Alamein Dolomite, and Alam El Bueib Members. This required a thorough study of 33 seismic lines and five well log records. Our investigations revealed the presence of hydrocarbons in the deep, mid, and shallow target zones, underscoring the significant potential of the Khatatba-Ras Qattara and Bahariya layers. The net pay thicknesses observed ranged from 12 to 43 feet, while effective porosity values fluctuated between 10 and 18%. Water saturation varied from 10 to 98%, while hydrocarbon saturation varied from 48 to 90%. Seismic interpretation revealed abundant normal faults in the study area, and our maps showed structural closures, including three-way and four-way dip closures, influenced by these faults. The shallowness of the Bahariya layer, coupled with Shally Sand facies intercalations in the upper target, makes it particularly susceptible to fault leakage, necessitating careful consideration when selecting drilling locations. Notably, the western half of our investigation area exhibited more Alam El Bueib Member net pay zones compared to the eastern and south-eastern regions. The geological structure of the deep-target Khatatba-Ras Qattara is of particular interest, revealing a total of 37 potential leads across all levels. These leads encompass destinations like Bahariya, Alam El-Bueib, and Khatatba formations, some of which may have dual targets, while others may focus on a single objective.

The Semiotic Background of the Ineffective Investigation in the Weird Detective Story

Abstract The classical detective story is based on a teleological certainty offered by the narrative. In these stories, the detective successfully solves the crime, and the lawful order is restored in an assuring manner, so the closure of the narrative structure does not allow for an open ending in ontological terms. However, weird fiction and its most recent form, new weird, have a different approach to the teleological givens prescribed by the classical detective story (whodunit). The weird investigation is paradigmatically open-ended, and the detective most often fails to solve the case. The argument develops a distinction between two basic semiotic structures that characterize crime fiction. While all crime fiction is set in an environment that is based on simulation, the classical detective can revert the simulated semiotic structure into signs based on representation, thus the interpretation of the signs results in solving the crime. The weird and new weird stories, on the other hand, defy this representational logic, which is demonstrated by Howard Phillips Lovecraft’s weird fiction and Neil Gaiman’s new weird short story entitled “A Study in Emerald.”

Seismic interpretation and sequence stratigraphic analysis of the Bahariya Formation in the South Umbaraka oilfields (Western Desert, Egypt): insights into reservoir distribution, architecture, and evaluation

The integration of multiscale datasets, including seismic, well-logs and stratigraphy, is providing a precise picture about reservoir evaluation and spatial distribution. This study focuses on the seismic interpretation and sequence stratigraphic analysis of the Bahariya Formation in the South Umbaraka oilfields (Selkit, Khepri, and Sethos), located in the Western Desert of Egypt. Seismic interpretations reveal various structural closures, including anticlinal domes and faulted anticlines in different fields. The study area is divided into northern and southern blocks separated by a major fault, and structural cross sections provide valuable information on reservoir zones regarding lateral extension, thickness variation, and fault distribution. The Bahariya Formation is subdivided into two depositional sequences: Lower Bahariya sequence (BAH.SQ-1) and Upper Bahariya sequence (BAH.SQ-2) with distinct wireline-log characteristics, seismic reflections, and lithofacies variations. BAH.SQ-1 comprises mixed siliciclastic-dominated units with some carbonate units, while BAH.SQ-2 consists of mixed siliciclastic and carbonate units. Multiple sequence boundaries, depositional surfaces, and systems tracts are identified within BAH.SQ-1 and BAH.SQ-2, indicating changes in sedimentary environments and sea-level fluctuations. The petrophysical evaluation reveals promising reservoir zones in both the Lower and Upper Bahariya sequences. However, the Lower Bahariya sequence exhibits superior reservoir characteristics in terms of net-pay thickness, shale volume, effective porosity, and water saturation. Particularly, the sandstone-dominated LST-1 within the Lower Bahariya Formation is identified as a favorable reservoir zone. Conversely, the Upper Bahariya Formation has limited reservoir potential. This study underscores the significance of sequence stratigraphy and reservoir architecture, emphasizing the role of faulting, folding, and depositional environments in the distribution and quality of reservoir zones. The findings contribute valuable insights into the structural and stratigraphic characteristics of the Bahariya Formation, enhancing understanding of hydrocarbon plays and reservoir distribution in the studied area.

Regional source rock thermal stress modeling and map-based charge access modeling of the Port Isabel passive margin foldbelt, northwestern Gulf of Mexico

The Port Isabel passive margin foldbelt covers 17,000 km2 of the northwestern deepwater U.S. Gulf of Mexico. Seven oil exploration wells have been drilled in the area from 1996 to 2007, yielding a single uncommercial gas discovery. The 5–7 km thick Oligo-Miocene section prevents drilling from penetrating the underlying Paleogene and Mesozoic source rocks. Accommodation space for the Oligo-Miocene section is created by the collapse of a paleo-salt wall, leading to linked fault systems in the upper decollement to the east. We use 13 exploration wells to construct 1D and map-based 2D basin models to investigate the burial and thermal history of three inferred source rock horizons (Paleogene, Turonian, and Tithonian). We interpret a 2D seismic data grid tied to four wells to constrain stratigraphic depths and thicknesses of the younger and shallower Wilcox source rock horizons, and the Jurassic and Cretaceous source rock horizons. Our results indicate that vitrinite reflectance is a proxy for the thermal stress levels reached by the source rocks as supported by maps of hydrocarbon charge access. We conclude that all three source rock intervals have reached varying degrees of maturity, expelled hydrocarbons in late Paleogene to mid-Neogene, and likely continue expelling hydrocarbons to the present-day at a reduced rate. The deposition of the Oligocene and Middle Miocene sedimentary section has buried the underlying source intervals and likely brought them into the gas/condensate window in the present-day. Our mapping of the extensive seismic reflection grid reveals four-way structural closures, three-way stratigraphic traps, and salt truncation structures associated with amplitude anomalies which may support our predictions for maturity in the underlying source rocks. Our thermal stress maps predict that the modeled source rocks are mature and our charge access models for the available wells constrain migration patterns, although the timing of the early hydrocarbon charge and late trap formation remain significant risk factors.