bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing the Effects of Triticale on Laying Hens’ Performance: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Poaty Ditengou Junior Isaac Celestin , Ahn Sung-Il , Cho Sangbuem , Chae Byungho , Hirwa Fabrice , Cheon Inhyeok , Choi Nag-Jin
Published: May 2024

Triticale is known for being an alternative energy source to usual cereals such as maize and wheat in poultry nutrition. Several studies suggested opposite results regarding its incorporation as a feed ingredient on laying hens’ production parameters. This article used a meta-analysis to assess the factors influencing the effects of triticale on layers’ performance. In July 2022, papers studying the effect of triticale on layers’ egg production (EP), egg weight (EW), egg yolk color (EYC), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were identified on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct. According to the eligibility criteria of PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, 6 articles were registered and segmented into 16 experiments for our meta-analysis. Overall, the trim and fill method revealed that triticale had similar impacts to conventional cereals on laying hens' performance. However, the meta-ANOVA and the meta-regression emphasized that triticale percentage, triticale strains and laying hens strains could significantly influence the effect of triticale on layers' performance. Indeed, the meta-Anova highlighted that the Hy-Line Brown strain and Joesong and Juanilo triticale strains in-duced the best laying hens’ performance. Moreover, the meta-regression emphasized a positive correlation between the triticale inclusion percentage and the EW in Juanilo triticale diets and a negative correlation between the triticale inclusion percentages and the EYC in the triticale and laying hens strains studied. Even though the funnel plot and the Egger linear test suggested sig-nificant publication bias, the present meta-analysis remains consistent research to understand how certain factors could influence the impact of triticale on layers' performance.
Chalcogen-Bond-Assisted Formation of the N→C Dative Bonds in the Complexes between Chalcogenadiazoles/Chalcogenatriazoles and Fullerene C60
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wang Weizhou
Published: May 2024

The existences of the N→C dative bonds in the complexes between N-containing molecules and fullerenes have been verified both theoretically and experimentally. However, finding stable N→C dative bonds is still a highly challenging task. In this work, we investigated computationally the N→C dative bonds in the complexes formed by fullerene C60 with 1,2,5-chalcogenadiazoles, 2,1,3-benzochalcogenadiazoles and 1,2,4,5-chalcogenatriazoles, respectively. It was found that the N→C dative bonds are formed along with the formation of the N–Ch···C (Ch = S, Se, Te) chalcogen bonds. In the gas phase, from S-containing complexes through Se-containing complexes to Te-containing complexes, the intrinsic interaction energies become more and more negative, which indicates that the N–Ch···C chalcogen bonds can facilitate the formation of the N→C dative bonds. The intrinsic interaction energies are compensated by the large deformation energy of fullerene C60. The total interaction energies of Te-containing complexes are negative, while both of the total interaction energies of S-containing complexes and Se-containing complexes are positive. This means that the N→C dative bonds in the Te-containing complexes are more easily observed in experiments in comparison with those in the S-containing complexes and Se-containing complexes. This study provides a new theoretical perspective on the experimental observation of the N→C dative bonds in the complexes involving fullerenes. Further, the formation of stable N→C dative bonds in the complexes involving fullerenes can significantly change the properties of fullerenes, which will greatly simulate and expand the application range of fullerenes.
Effects of Trade Liberalization on Household Welfare in Kenya
Authors: Mogendi Justine Ongeri
Published: May 2024

Trade liberalization is commonly pursued to improve welfare of households in a country. However, the effects of liberalization are not evenly distributed. Certain households and sectors may benefit more than others. This study focuses on the East African Community Common External Tariff (EAC-CET), to analyze the distributional effects of trade liberalization in Kenya. The study utilizes two household budget surveys capturing pre- and post-trade liberalization scenarios. The paper examines changes in consumer prices, labor incomes, and consumption patterns to assess the effects of liberalization. A pass-through equation for prices and a negative compensation variation equation are estimated. The findings indicate that the EAC-CET had a significant pass-through effect on prices of manufactured goods, but incomplete pass-through for agricultural goods. This suggests a lack of competitiveness in domestic value chains. The distributional effects differ across worker categories, favoring skilled and formal workers over unskilled and informal workers. The income effect outweighs the negative expenditure effect for households in the middle- and upper-income deciles. However, the study reveals negative welfare effects for the poorest households in the lowest income deciles. Furthermore, the study identifies the EAC-CET to be pro-poor, with households in rural areas benefiting more than those in urban areas.
New Isomeric Dipyridothiazine Dimers — Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Cytotoxicity Screening
Authors: Martula Emilia , Morak-Młodawska Beata , Jeleń Małgorzata , Strzyga-Łach Paulina , Struga Marta , Żurawska Katarzyna , Kasprzycka Anna
Published: May 2024

New dimers of selected dipyridothiazines with an m-xylene linker have been designed, synthesized and characterized. Their structure was identified using 1H and 13C NMR as well as 2D NMR techniques (COSY, ROESY, HSQC and HMBC experiments) and HR MS spectrometry. The compounds were subjected to preliminary in silico biological profile tests using the Way2Drug server and analysis of the probable cytotoxic effect on various cancer cell lines. Preliminary in vitro cytotoxicity tests were performed against normal cell lines (HaCaT) and five cancer cell lines (SW480, SW620, MDA-MB-231, A-549, LN-229) showing moderate activity. An analysis of the structure-activity relationship was performed.
The Performance of Agronomic and Quality Traits of Quinoa under Different Altitude in Northwest of China
Authors: Cui Hongliang , Yao Qing , Xing Bao , Zhou Bangwei , Song Xiaoxiao , Abdurah Sirna Ee , Turahun Delimurati , Gu Minfeng , Ren Guixing , Shah Syed Sadaqat , Qin Peiyou
Published: May 2024

Quinoa is a resilient crop known for its adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. This study examined the agronomic performance and ecological adaptability of quinoa across four distinct altitudes in the northwestern regions of China. Six quinoa genotypes were assessed for agronomic traits, phenology and yield performances, and nutritional quality characteristics in Yining city, Nilka County, Tekes County and Zhaosu County under varied environmental conditions. Our findings demonstrate significant variations in all measured traits including agronomic and nutritional quality traits across the various altitudes and genotypes. In Yining City, a warmer and lower altitude area, genotypes exhibit superior traits for fodder production, including increased branches, longer panicles, robust stems, and high seed protein content. Genotypes Jinli 1 and Beijing 2 achieve yields exceeding 3 tons per hectare (T/ha), highlighting the region’s productivity. Nilka and Tekes counties boasted the shortest quinoa crop cycles, with Jinli 1 yielding 4.05 T/ha seeds in Tekes County, exhibiting high protein and fat content alongside low saponins, making it prime location for yield production. Zhaosu County, with its cooler climate and fertile chernozem soil, elicited high 1000 seed weight and more robust protein response than Nilka and Tekes counties, illustrating the impact of soil fertility on nutritional composition. Correlation analyses further elucidated that the plants characterized by shorter flowering times, crop cycles, compact inflorescence, and taller heights exhibited superior seed yields. Our study contributes significant insights into the ecological adaptability and nutritional dynamics of quinoa, with implications for sustainable crop production and food security in diverse agroecosystems.
Enhancing Efficiency and Security in Unbalanced PSI-CA Protocols through Cloud Computing and Homomorphic Encryption in Mobile Networks
Authors: Tan Wuzheng , Du Shenglong , Weng Jian
Published: May 2024

Private Set Intersection Cardinality(PSI-CA) is a cryptographic method in secure multi-party computation that allows entities to identify cardinality of the intersection without revealing their private data.Traditional approaches assume similar-sized datasets and equal computational power, overlooking practical imbalances.In real-world applications, dataset sizes and computational capacities often vary, particularly in the Internet of Things and mobile scenarios where device limitations restrict computational types. Traditional PSI-CA protocols are inefficient here, as computational and communication complexities correlate with the size of larger datasets. Thus, adapting PSI-CA protocols to these imbalances is crucial.This paper explores unbalanced scenarios where one party (the receiver) has a relatively small dataset and limited computational power, while the other party (the sender) has a large amount of data and strong computational capabilities.This paper, based on the concept of commutative encryption, introduces Cuckoo filter, cloud computing technology, homomorphic encryption, among other technologies, to construct three novel solutions for unbalanced Private Set Intersection Cardinality (PSI-CA): an unbalanced PSI-CA protocol based on Cuckoo filter, an unbalanced PSI-CA protocol based on single cloud assistance, and an unbalanced PSI-CA protocol based on dual cloud assistance. Depending on performance and security requirements, different protocols can be employed for various applications.
Exploring Parents' Perceptions of the Importance of Technology in Early Childhood Education Among the Sidama People
Authors: Tomora Dereje Dakamo
Published: May 2024

This research investigates the perceptions of parents belonging to the Sidama ethnic group re-garding the significance of technology in early childhood education. The study aims to elucidate how parents perceive the role of technology, such as digital devices and educational applications, in the education and development of their young children. Through qualitative interviews con-ducted with 30 parents and thematic analysis, the study uncovers diverse perspectives, shedding light on cultural, socioeconomic, and educational factors influencing parental attitudes towards technology in early childhood education among the Sidama people. Findings indicate a spectrum of views ranging from enthusiastic embracement to cautious reservation, revealing nuanced considerations that inform parental decisions regarding technology integration in their children's learning experiences.
Mineral Identification based on Out-Of-Distribution Detection
Authors: Ji Xiaohui , Liang Kaiwen , Yang Yang , Yang Mei , He Mingyue , Zhang Zhaochong , Zeng Shan , Wang Yuzhu
Published: May 2024

Deep learning has increasingly been employed to identify minerals. However, deep learning can only be used to identify minerals in the distribution of the training set, while any mineral outside the spectrum of the training set is inevitably categorized erroneously within a predetermined class from the training set. To solve this problem, the study introduces the approach that amalgamates One-Class Support Vector Machines (OCSVM) with the ResNet architecture for the out-of-distribution mineral detection. Initially, ResNet undergoes training using a training set comprising well-defined minerals. Subsequently, the earlier layers of the trained ResNet are employed to extract the discriminative features of the mineral under consideration. These extracted mineral features then become the input for OCSVM. When OCSVM discerns the mineral in the training set's distribution, it triggers the subsequent layers within the trained ResNet, facilitating the accurate classification of the mineral into one of the predefined categories encompassing the known minerals. In the event OCSVM identifies the mineral out of the training set's distribution, it is unequivocally categorized as an unclassified or 'unknown' mineral. Empirical results substantiate the method's capability to identify out-of-distribution minerals while concurrently maintaining a commendably high accuracy rate for the classification of the 36 in-distribution minerals.
Vermicomposting in Semi Arid Soil: A Regional and Seasonal Approach for Transforming Trash to Treasure
Authors: Nisar Shabistana , Ahmad Afsar , Kumar Deepak , Ahmad Meraj , Khan Mubeen , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: May 2024

This study explores the potential of Eisenia fetida (Savigny) in vermicompost production within vermipits during winter months in the Rampur region of Uttar Pradesh, India. The vermipits were inoculated with 0.33 kg of E. fetida per pit, against the recommended rate of inoculation for assessment of real-time potential of earthworm on seasonal and regional grounds. The results revealed a significant increase in earthworm population, with three times production (4.1 kg) of the inoculated number (1.0 kg). The productivity dynamics of compost vs E. feida revealed a notable threefold and fourfold effectiveness, respectively. This dual advantage signifies the success of composting process, with the increased worm population indicating enhanced decomposition. The study attributes the combination of regional and edaphic factors viz., sandy loam soil with high humus content and good water passage, facilitating earthworm survival, reproduction and decomposition of agricultural waste. The loose and perforated soil structure allowed easy penetration of earthworms, transforming the soil into fertile compost. The research emphasizes the importance of soil moisture of semi-arid ecosystems thus highlighting the seasonal significance governing earthworm activity. The study provides insights into the mechanical ability of earthworms, its sensitivity to soil compaction and the influence of high hydration of the region. Inoculation during the winter period indicates increased earthworm activity setting the stage for enhanced compost production in the upcoming hot periods of summer months. The findings suggest that optimizing vermicomposting practices with altered feeding stocks, could further improvise compost and earthworm production and productivity in subsequent seasons. The study contributes for sustainable utilization of E. fetida in composting, its regional and seasonal efficacy turns trash to treasure for enhanced agricultural efficacy.
Virulence Molecular Epidemiology of Clinical Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii:
First Report from Jordan
Authors: Zueter AbdelRahman M , Al Balawi Dua’a , Al-Tamimi Mohammad , Sawan Hana M. , Binsuwaidan Reem , Albalawi Hadeel , Shuqair Dalal , Mharib Taghrid
Published: May 2024

1) Background: carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) is an opportunistic Gram-negative pathogen that has a significant role in healthcare-associated infections. Unlike several studies on the antibiotic-resistant epidemiology of A. baumanni, virulence molecular epidemiology was less studied. This study aimed to investigate CRAB virulence genes and their ability to form biofilms, and to correlate their biofilm formation ability with both; biofilm-encoding virulence genes and carbapenemase-encoding resistance genes. 2) Methods: 107 CRAB clinical isolates were collected from two hospitals in Jordan between 2018 and 2019 and were screened for virulence genes using PCR. In addition, biofilm formation ability was assessed using the microtiter plate method. 3) Results: the frequencies of the bap, OmpA, surA, PLD, paaE, basD, and traT virulence genes were 99.10%, 98.20%, 98.20%, 95.50%, 89.10%, 86.40%, and 8.20%, respectively. Overall, 86.4% of the tested isolates were biofilm formers with varying degrees; weak (28.2%), moderate (36.4%) and strong (21.8%). A significant relationship was found between the carbapenemase-encoding gene (OXA-23 gene) and biofilm production. 4) Conclusion: to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in Jordan that inspected CRAB virulence genes and highlighted the importance of improving infection control measures to avoid CRAB outbreaks.
Modeling and Simulation of Distribution Networks with High Renewable Penetration in Open-Source Software: QGIS and OpenDSS
Authors: De Jesús-Grullón Ramón , Batista Jorge Rafael Omar , Espinal Serrata Abraham , Bueno Díaz Justin Eladio , Pichardo Estévez Juan José , Guerrero-Rodríguez Nestor Francisco
Published: May 2024

There are important challenges for modeling large electrical distribution circuits, even more with the presence of distributed renewable generation. Constructing simulations for assessing the effect of the penetration of distributed generation on electrical distribution networks has become of great importance for Distribution Network Operators (DNOs). This paper proposes a simulation strategy based on open-source platforms and the integration of scripting tools for the rapid modeling of large-scale electrical distribution circuits with distributed renewable generation. The implementation is based on the adaptation of a tool called QGIS2OpenDSS, which creates OpenDSS distribution network models directly from an open-source geographic information system, QGIS. The plugin’s capabilities are demonstrated using a real distribution feeder with more than 60% penetration of renewable generation based on photovoltaic systems. These simulations are carried out using real data from a circuit provided by a DNO in the Dominican Republic, which is used to demonstrate how this approach provides a more accessible and flexible way to simulate and assess the effect of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in Medium Voltage (MV) and Low Voltage (LV) networks, enabling utilities to evaluate system performance and identify potential issues.
Manganese Dioxide (MnO2) Nanoparticles Passivated Perovskite Solar Cell for Improved Power Conversion Efficiency
Authors: Amole Simeon , Adedokun Oluwaseun , Awodugba Ayodeji
Published: May 2024

Passivating the grain boundaries is completely very crucial in the enhancement of the performance of halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, a novel organolead halide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3) was synthesized using solution processes-based method to sensitize 1D titanium dioxide (TiO2) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanoparticles for all-solid-state halide perovskite solar cells. TiO2 and RGO were synthesized via sol-gel and Hummers’ methods, respectively, and incorporated at the electron transport layer (ETL) in planar PSCs. Additionally, MnO2 was prepared by chemical method, and used to enhance graphite counter electrode. ITO/RGO/TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3/Gr and ITO/RGO/TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3/Gr-MnO2 planar PSCs were fabricated via spin coating method. ITO/RGO/TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3/Gr-MnO2 film achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.79%, short circuit current (Jsc) of 19.0 mAcm-2 and fill factor (FF) of 51.53% compared to PCE of 8.64%, Jsc of 16.25 mAcm-2 and FF of 47.48% achieved for ITO/RGO/TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3/Gr film. The enhancement value of 22.85% was achieved from J-V curves after exposing the ITO/RGO/TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3/Gr and ITO/RGO/TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3/Gr-MnO2 films to Keithley 2400 sourcemeter (Keithley Instrument Inc.) under AM 1.5G (100 mWcm-2) (Newport) solar illumination in order to test their photovoltaic performance. This study shows that MnO2 nanoparticle has a proven capability to improve the photovoltaic performance of PSCs.
A Review on Reinforcement Learning in Production Scheduling: An Inferential Perspective
Authors: Modrak Vladimir , Ranjitharamasamy Sudhakarapandian , Balamurugan Arunmozhi , Soltysova Zuzana
Published: May 2024

In this study, a comprehensive review on production scheduling based on reinforcement learning (RL) techniques using bibliometric analysis has been carried out. The aim of this work is, among other things, to point out the growing interest in this domain and to outline the influence of RL as a type of machine learning on production scheduling. To achieve this, the paper explores production scheduling using RL by investigating the descriptive metadata of all pertinent publications contained in the Web of Science database. The study focuses on a wide spectrum of publications spanning the years between 1998 and 2023. The findings and recommendations of this study can serve as new insights for future research endeavors in the realm of production scheduling using RL techniques.
Sustainable Biotechnology Approaches Using Chlorella vulgaris's Biomass and Lipids as Biofuel Feedstock
Authors: Singh Harjeet , Jain Mukul , Dave Kirtan , Pandya Shivani R. , Yadav Alpa , Sharma Meenakshi , Kaushik Prashant
Published: May 2024

Chlorella vulgaris has considerable promise as a raw material for biofuel production since it has a high productivity per unit area, has a minimum influence on the environment, and does not significantly affect food security. Nevertheless, the low fatty content of their biomass poses a considerable economic obstacle for commercialization. Increasing the amount of biomass and lipids produced by these algae is essential for improving the economic feasibility of using them as biofuel sources. This review highlights the significance of identifying appropriate algal strains, namely those found in local environments, and utilising mutagenesis and genetic engineering techniques to create 'platform strains'. Prior endeavours have primarily concentrated on altering environmental and dietary parameters to enhance the production of biomass and lipids. Here, we review a scientific literature that examines biotechnological approaches and develops methodologies designed to increase lipid production, emphasising the importance of aligning engineering efforts with breakthroughs in DNA manipulation tools. In addition, the review research evaluates the present economic and commercial situation of algal biorefineries, including any related disadvantages. In summary, this thorough research highlights the importance of using creative methods to tackle the intricacies of lipogenesis and enhance the economic viability of producing biofuels from algae.
Analytical Modeling of Eddy Current Loss and Thermal Analysis of Non-Uniform Air Gap Combined Pole Permanent Magnet Motors for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Ma Shilun , Chen Keqi , Li Changwei , Ma Jianwei
Published: May 2024

In order to solve the problem of large eddy current loss and high temperature rise caused by large amount of permanent magnet, a new type of combined magnetic pole permanent magnet motor is proposed in this paper. The sinusoidal distribution subdomain model of non-uniform air gap rotor is established by using Laplace equation, and the analytical expression of eddy current loss of rotor in uniform air-gap and non-uniform air-gap is derived. The effect of rotor eccentricity on eddy current loss is obtained. According to the characteristics of distributed winding of non-uniform air gap combined pole permanent magnet motor, equivalent treatment is performed to obtain the equivalent thermal conductivity, so as to establish equivalent thermal network model of motor, calculate the temperature value of each component of the motor, and verify the correctness of the thermal network model through the method of magnetothermal bidirectional coupling. Finally, an experimental platform is set up to carry out temperature rise experiments on the two prototypes respectively. Experimental results show that the non-uniform air-gap rotor structure can effectively reduce the rotor eddy current loss and motor temperature rise, and also verify the accuracy of the analytical model calculation results.
Screening and the Industry of Myxopyronin B Antibiotic from Different Soil Environments in Egypt
Authors: Kassab Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Background: Across the world, antibiotic resistance is a grave problem. To address this issue, it is necessary to investigate new antibiotic sources. Aim of the study: Egypt's diverse soil habitats were used to produce bacterial Myxopyronin B, which was then tested for antimicrobial activity in preclinical animal studies and randomized human clinical trials stages 1/2. Type of the study: Screening experimental study. Methodology: Egypt's various soil conditions were examined for the development of bacterial isolates that produced the antibiotic compound Myxopyronin B. Reversed phase HPLC was used to purify Myxopyronin B. To determine the test antibiotic's minimum inhibitory concentration( MIC) and invitro antibacterial activity, the Broth microdilution method and the Paper disc diffusion assay were utilized. Moreover, in vivo antibacterial spectrum, adverse medication responses, and pharmacokinetics were found in preclinical animal testing stages and phases 1/2 of randomized clinical studies involving volunteer humans. Results: Myxopyronin B was generated from the culture supernatant of Myxococcus SDU36, the main soil bacterial isolate cultured on a Casein yeast peptone plate. With MICs less than 100 mcg/ml, the test antibiotic prevented the growth of several Gram +ve bacteria, whereas, at MICs higher than 100 mcg/ml, it inhibited the development of a small number of Gram -ve bacteria, including Escherichia coli. However, eukaryotic cells—such as those found in fungi and humans—were unaffected. The test antibiotic was seen to inhibit prokaryotic DNA-dependent RNA polymerase( RNLP), indicating its bactericidal activity. Mean Cmax was 9-10 mcg/ ml at mean Tmax 1 hour when 600 mg dose was orally administered in randomized human clinical trials phases 1/2, and T1/2 reached 2.25 hours following first-order kinetics of elimination. Duration of its action was nearly 8 hours after oral administration. Rare toxicity was detected during preclinical and randomized human clinical trials phases 1/2 in the form of mild diarrhea and GI upset in less than 7 % of experimental candidates. It exhibited approximately 90% plasma protein binding, especially with albumin which resulted in prolonged therapeutic action. It showed a concentration dependant antibiotic killing effect. With the concentration-dependent killing pattern, the higher the drug concentration relative to the pathogen minimum inhibitory concentration( MIC), the greater the rate and extent of antimicrobial activity. Conclusion: The present study was promising due to the production of the bactericidal antibiotic Myxopyronin B from Myxococcus sp. SDU36 isolated from different soil environments in Egypt.
A Study on Control of Dog Food Quality, Safety and Health
Authors: Ma Ka Man , Chan Tsz Him , Mak Shu Lun , Tang Wai Fan , Chak Wai Ying , Lee Chi Chung , Li Chun Yin
Published: May 2024

Dogs population increased exponentially in the past decade while the birth rate decreased gradually, especially in the developed countries. Due to dogs’ characteristics of loyalty and obedience, most pet owners treated their dogs as their family members or companions, therefore they are willing to select and purchase safe, high quality and nutrition dog food to their dogs. However, there is lack of regulation or standard to reinforce the production or distribution of dog food in Hong Kong. Consequently, this paper will first review the relationship between high dog population and declining birth rate, types of dog food and typical ingredients. Secondly, the potential health implications of various “toxic” food ingredients for dog, hazard analysis of dog food and its testing methods will be investigated. Lastly, this paper will summarize worldwide existing standards and regulations, quality and hygiene management system related to dog food safety to provide insights and suggestions to Hong Kong government about the importance and urgency of implementing regulations and policies to oversee the imported and local manufactured dog food.
Correlation between belief in science and belief in pseudoscience in high school students
Authors: Maghfiroh Adinda Zahwatun , Pantiwati Yuni , Husamah H. , Permana Tutut Indria , Fauzi Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Dissemination of news through social media is one of the biggest causes of increasing student’s trust in pseudoscience. The purpose of this correlational study was to analyze the relationship between belief in science and pseudoscience beliefs related to biology in high school students. This research entails a correlational study conducted through a survey methodology. The results of the study show that the ability to believe in science has a significant effect on students' belief in pseudoscience related to biology for high school students. Based on the research, the initial hypothesis of the study was rejected, that there is a positive relationship between belief in science and belief in pseudoscience related to biology, thus indicating that increasing students' confidence in science will also increase students' confidence in pseudoscience related to biology. This is due to the continuous spread of unscientific issues through social media which will affect the increase in trust in pseudoscience. The increase in pseudoscience is due to the lack of student media literacy so that it can affect the way students respond to news that is on social media. The lack of education regarding students' media literacy is a factor in increasing students' confidence in pseudoscience related to biology for high school students.
What are the valuable lessons from global research on environmental literacy in the last two decades? A systematic literature review
Authors: Husamah H. , Rahardjanto Abdulkadir , Hadi Samsun , Lestari Nurdiyah
Published: May 2024

Publications on environmental literacy (EL) in reputable international journals have continued to increase and develop in the last two decades, making it interesting to study. This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to investigatively review various studies published in journals indexed in the Scopus database related to EL. The review focuses on publication trends and valuable lessons to be learned from global research over the past two decades. We used the phrase “environmental literature” in the Scopus disbursement menu and found 296 articles. The inclusion and exclusion model used is PRISMA, so only 37 articles met the criteria to be analyzed. Data shows that EL publications have fluctuated, starting to increase in number from 2017 to 2023 although it had decreased in 2021. EL publications are mostly researched using quantitative methods, and some with qualitative, mix-method, and R&D. The dominant name in EL studies is F. X. Bogner. The two main keywords related to the EL keyword are environmental education and knowledge. Most of the articles published are collaborative, both internationally and between universities within one country. We discussed the valuable lessons in question, namely the sample size, gender, institution level, and main goal of each article. These findings can serve as a consideration or baseline for researchers to study EL according to their respective interests, needs and missions.
Narrowing the Competency Rift: Analyzing Skill Levels with Digital Doubles
Authors: Ahmed Alaa A. A.
Published: May 2024

The baby boomer generation continues to retire and turnover in the process industry (the great resignation) is impacting many manufacturing sites with severe ‘brain drain’ at all levels, especially operators. The industry is searching for ways to make onboarding of new hires and plant specific qualification more efficient and effective. Traditional methods, like classroom training and shadowing experienced colleagues and SMEs for an extended period of time, are important but no longer sufficient.

Moreover, these traditional ways to pass on procedural knowledge tend to be highly dependent on the individual (people), which hinders standardization. Over time, shifts develop different ways of doing things, departing from the original procedure or taking shortcuts. In many instances, this leads to practice in the field not reflecting the written procedure. Our industry has a clear need for more transparency and a higher level of control over the practical procedural knowledge of the workforce (tribal knowledge), as well as a way to check and measure the level of operator knowledge and procedural compliance.

In addition to the shortcomings of traditional training, a common cause for practice in the field not reflecting the written procedures is that the ‘procedure clarity’ is often suboptimal due to the ambiguities or general statements in the procedure steps.

These challenges and shortcomings directly impact operational productivity due to long onboarding times and unplanned equipment downtime as a result of operating errors. They also directly impact plants’ safety performance, especially where actions cannot be automated and secured by safety instrumented systems. The flawless interaction of operators with the asset is an important layer of plant safety.

Enhanced Reality technology has been proven to solve the challenges described above. It allows simulating standard operating procedures in a photorealistic 3D environment (digital replica) for users to review, practice and test on standard operating procedures on-demand and on any device. Manufacturing organizations can capture their practical procedural expertise (Tribal Knowledge) and are able to measure and track procedure competency across their operators. This methodology has been labelled Digital Twin of the Person (DToP) by Gartner (1), referring to the human-centric approach of this technique.

Our presentation will include case studies from some of the process industries biggest companies that demonstrate the impact of improved procedure clarity and more consistent execution, which reduces unplanned events and speeds up operator onboarding while capturing more ‘tribal knowledge’.
A New Subtle Fault Modeling Technique Based on OBN Seismic Data and Production Performance and its Application in X Oilfield, Central Asia
Authors: Tang Zichang , Rouis Lamia , Huang Qingfeng , Caiqin Liu , Talaat Mohamed , Ameish Giamal , Blanco Andres , Aldrin Rondon , Fuli An , Jinlin Cui , Yaliang Xia , Jiajia Li , Weixiang Zhong , Al Mansoori Jasem , Ibrahim Mohamed
Published: May 2024

With the deepening of field development, subtle faults have an increasing impact on reservoir production. However, limited by the resolution of seismic data, the interpretation accuracy of subtle faults is difficult to meet the needs of oilfield development adjustment, which brings great challenges to fault modeling in the middle and late stages of development. Subtle faults can lead to problems such as complex oil-water relationship in reservoirs, poor water injection connectivity, and quite differences in production and pressure drop between nearby wells. In order to improve the accuracy of fault modeling in the middle and late stages of development, this paper proposes a method of subtle fault interpretation and modeling based on production performance driven, integrated of fault cut, FMI and azimuth Ocean Bottom Nodes (OBN) data.

The X oilfield is located in the strike-slip fault zone in Central Asia, its fault system is very complex, after nearly 50 years of production, the distribution of remaining oil is scattered. The conventional small fault identification and modeling methods are difficult to meet the requirement of oilfield development adjustment research, therefore, the technique proposed in this paper is based on production driven and dived into 4 steps: 1) The inter-well connectivity was analyzed by using the reservoir PVT data, pressure and production data, and the distribution of subtle faults between wells was preliminarily speculated;2) Through well correlation study, the subtle fault cut and fault type of the wells were identified, combined with the regional tectonic stress and FMI data to analyze the dip angle and orientation of subtle faults;3) Based on possible faults’ dip and orientation, the seismic attributes and azimuth OBN data were combined to identify subtle faults, and a three-dimensional complex fault model was established to accurately describe the geometric shape and properties of subtle faults; 4) The rationality of subtle fault distribution is verified by fluid contact analysis and production data. The application of this technology in Central Asia X oilfield is good, and the fault model is consistent with the results of fluid contact analysis and production performance analysis results, which proves that this technology can improve the accuracy of the fault model and lay a solid foundation for efficient adjustment in the later stage.

The subtle fault modeling technique proposes a new workflow of fault characteristics. It can better integrate dynamic data into subtle fault interpretation and modeling, improving the rationality and accuracy of subtle fault model, and meet the requirement of remaining oil study in field development.
In Situ Generation of Clean Hydrogen in Gas Reservoirs: Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Askarova A. G. , Afanasev P. A. , Popov E. Y. , Cheremisin A. N. , Malaniy S. E. , Volkov D. A. , Cheremisin A. N.
Published: May 2024

There has been a growing trend in the energy sector toward hydrogen generation due to the market’s rising need for hydrogen. This change has led to a larger emphasis on creating methods and tools for subsurface hydrogen production from hydrocarbons. This research determines the features of the process of In-situ Hydrogen Generation (ISHG) and interprets the results of laboratory tests to build a scheme of kinetic reactions.

A combustion tube experiment of methane combustion in porous media was conducted to reproduce the process of hydrogen synthesis from methane under reservoir conditions (high pressure and temperatures) created by the In-situ Combustion (ISC) technology. Further numerical modelling allows validating the kinetic model typical for methane combustion in a pores medium, removing uncertainties and determining the favorable conditions for hydrogen generation (temperature, steam-methane ratio, injection rate).

During numerical simulation, good convergence of numerical simulation results with experimental data was obtained, namely the temperature profile, cumulative gas production, and molar concentrations of gas components such as H2, CH4, CO and CO2, as the main indicators of the kinetic model adaptation quality. The methane steam reforming and methane cracking reactions demonstrated the highest contribution to producing gases. The constructed kinetic model was history-matched to the experiment of the combustion tube to assess the advancement of the high-temperature front, the transformations occurring in a given zone of elevated temperatures and the adaptation of the curves of relative-phase characteristics for the subsequent assessment of the method’s effectiveness. The obtained kinetic model and relative permeability curves were used in field-scale modelling. The up-scaled field model considered a few development strategies using existing infrastructure to optimize the hydrogen generation yield.

This paper determines the features of the process of ISHG and interprets the laboratory test results to build a scheme of kinetic reactions. The obtained kinetic model was used further in a field-scale model to assess the feasibility of hydrogen generation using existing infrastructure.
Exploring the Potential of Natural Gas Reservoirs for Underground Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Afanasev P. A. , Alekhina T. V. , Mukhametdinova A. Z. , Popov E. Y. , Cheremisin A. N.
Published: May 2024

The major trends over a few last decades have been focused on the strategies to decrease global warming affection and to develop a new environmentally friendly and sustainable method to fulfill hydrogen demand as a highly promising energy carrier. Nowadays, hydrogen is produced through steam methane reforming (SMR), resulting in up to 10 kg of CO2 emissions per 1 kg of H2. One potential approach for producing low-carbon hydrogen directly in hydrocarbon-rich reservoirs, leaving all greenhouse gases stored in the reservoir, is a novel hybrid catalytic-thermal process. In the current study, we report results on the experimental study of in situ hydrogen generation conducted in an autoclave setup with samples of reservoir rock. A heated reactor containing the natural core model was continually loaded with methane and a water solution of nickel-based catalyst. The tests were carried out with varying steam-to-methane ratios, at pressure of 80 bar and at temperatures between 500 and 800°C.

The results show that temperatures of no less than 600°C are necessary to convert a significant amount of methane to hydrogen-containing gas, likewise increased steam-to-methane ratio. Since the catalyst precursor forms nickel nanoparticles during the process, the study validates that a cheap, nickel-based catalyst precursor delivered in an inactive, water-soluble state can potentially be used to activate the primary hydrogen generation processes. So, in order to develop gas reservoirs, especially depleted ones, a novel proposed approach that converts methane into hydrogen can be used. A simple technique of introducing and applying hydrocarbon conversion catalyst confirmed its effectiveness despite the harmful influence of reservoir conditions. The proposed technology can make a significant contribution to global sustainability efforts via low carbon hydrogen production.
Dynamic Characterization of Viscous Fingering During Grading Viscosity Polymer Flooding (GVPF) in Heterogeneous Sandstone by Core-Scale Simulation
Authors: Qi Chuangchuang , Haroun Mohamed , Kobaisi Mohammed Al , Rahman Md Motiur
Published: May 2024

The primary objective of this research is to investigate the dynamic immiscible viscous fingering that occurs during grading viscosity polymer flooding in a heterogeneous core using simulations. The study also aims to assess the enhanced oil recovery (EOR) performance, including incremental oil recovery and the polymer utilization factor. Five bespoke core-flooding cases (full water flooding, full polymer flooding, polymer flooding followed by chase water, double-slug polymer flooding followed by chase water, and triple-slug polymer flooding followed by chase water) were conducted and analyzed to confirm the relationship between immiscible viscous fingering patterns and polymer EOR performance. This research has proven the potential of grading viscosity polymer flooding to improve oil recovery and delay water breakthrough with reduced polymer usage. The study also demonstrates the significance of accurately characterizing miscible viscous fingering to understand the performance of GVPF in core-flooding experiments and potential pilot implementation. This research contributes to selecting proper injection mode that can improve EOR performance while reducing polymer usage.
Synergistic Effect of Ionic Liquid and Surfactant for Enhancing Imbibition in Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Qi Z. Y. , Huang T. P. , Alotaibi M. B. , Boqmi A.
Published: May 2024

Chemical imbibition technology is an effective way to enhance oil production for fractured carbonate reservoirs. Surfactants have been reported frequently in the literature to enhance imbibition process, while the combination of ionic liquid and surfactants is less investigated. This study aims to analyze the synergic mechanisms of the combination contributing to imbibition process to assist in the application of chemical imbibition technology.

The laboratory experiments consisted measurement of several parameters: contact angle, interfacial tension (IFT), and zeta potential. Effectiveness of chemicals were evaluated by spontaneous imbibition using Amott cells. Three functional surfactants and four ionic liquids were investigated. Carbonate core plugs and chips were aged in crude oil at 95°C for more than 3 weeks to render them oil-wet prior to spontaneous imbibition and contact angle tests, respectively. Effect of ionic liquids on wettability alteration, IFT change and ultimate imbibition potential were analyzed.

The three surfactants and four ionic liquids were used with different IFT and wettability alteration ability. The ionic liquids have limited effects on IFT change and zeta potential on carbonate rock surface for all the tested surfactants, while the ionic liquid EMIM Ac and one anionic surfactant can modify the oil-wet carbonate surface to water-wet effectively, with contact angle reduced from ∼140° to ∼56°. The ionic liquid can enhance the stability of oil-water interface film, thus keeping the water-wetness status longer, compared with surfactant alone. Using the combination of ionic liquid and surfactant, the imbibition production can be improved by at 6 % compared with surfactant imbibition. The more water-wetness caused by ionic liquid contributes to the incremental oil production. An optimized imbibition agent formulation with high imbibition production potential and relatively lower chemical cost was developed for up-scale consideration.

This study investigated the synergistic effect of ionic liquid and surfactant on different parameters, especially the wettability alteration, which helps better understand the complex chemical imbibition phenomenon. The optimized imbibition agent has potential for further investigation.