bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of Urban Sprawl by Comparison Cellular Automata-Markov and ANN
Authors: Asadi Milad , Oshnooei-Nooshabadi Amir , Saleh Samira-alsadat , Habibnezhad Fattaneh , Sarafraz-Asbagh Sonia , Van Genderen John Lodewijk
Published: August 2022

A correctly obtained Land-use/land-cover (LULC) prediction map is essential to under-standing and assessing future patterns. In the study, the LULC map of Urmia/Iran in 2030 was produced using two different prediction methods CA-Markov and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). In general, the study followed a methodology consisting of three steps. In the first steps, Landsat satellite images acquired in 2000, 2010 and 2020 were classified with maximum likelihood algorithm and LULC maps were prepared for each year. In the second stage, to investigate the LULC prediction methods' validation (CA-Markov and ANN) the LULC prediction map of 2020 was produced using the LULC map of 2000 and 2010; In this step, the predicted LULC map of 2020 and the actual LULC map of 2020 were evaluated by correctness, completeness and quality indexes. Finally, The LULC map for 2030 was prepared using all two algorithms and the change map was extracted. The results show that the area of soil and vegetation decreased, and built-up regions increased during the research period. The methods validation results show that the two algorithms are much closer to each other. Nevertheless, in general, ANN has the highest completeness (96.21%) and quality (93.8%) and CA-Markov the most correctness (96.47). This study shows that the CA-Markov algorithm is most successful in predicting the future that had larger areas and a higher percentage in the region (urban and vegetation cover) and the ANN algorithm in predicting phenomena that had smaller levels with fewer percentages (soil and rock).
Human-In-The-Loop Optimization of Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Effects: A Computational Perspective Based on Systems Analysis
Authors: Arora Yashika , Dutta Anirban
Published: August 2022

Individual differences in the responsiveness of the brain to transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) is increasingly demonstrated in large variability in the tES effects. Anatomically detailed computational brain models have been developed to address this variability; however, static brain models are not ‘realistic’ in accounting for the dynamic state of the brain. Therefore, human-in-the-loop optimization is proposed in this perspective article based on an extensive systems analysis of the tES neurovascular effects. First, modal analysis was conducted using a physiologically detailed neurovascular model that found stable modes in the 0 Hz to 0.05 Hz range for the pathway for vessel response through the smooth muscle cells, measured with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). tES effects in the 0 Hz to 0.05 Hz range can also be measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)-tDCS data with a maximum TR=10sec. Therefore, we investigated an open-source fMRI-tDCS dataset that used a TR=3.36sec. We found that both the anodal tDCS condition and sham tDCS condition had similar Finite Impulse Response at the region of interest underlying the anode and a remote location, which indicated a global hemodynamic effect of sham tDCS beyond the intended transient sensations. Here, transient sensations can have arousal effects on the hemodynamics so we conducted a healthy case series for black box modeling of fNIRS-pupillometry of short-duration tDCS effects. The block exogeneity test rejected the claim that tDCS is not a 1-step Granger-cause of the fNIRS total hemoglobin changes (HbT) and pupil dilation changes (p<0.05). Also, grey-box modeling using fNIRS of the tDCS effects in chronic stroke showed HbT response to be significantly different (paired-sample t-test, p<0.05) between the ipsilesional and the contralesional hemisphere for primary motor cortex tDCS and cerebellar tDCS which was subserved by the smooth muscle cells. Here, our perspective is that various physiological pathways subserving tES effects can lead to state-trait variability that can be challenging for clinical translation. Therefore, we conducted a case study on human-in-the-loop optimization using our reduced dimension model and a stochastic, derivative-free Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolution Strategy. Future studies need to investigate human-in-the-loop optimization of tES for reducing inter-subject and intra-subject variability in tES effects.
A Measurement of Environmental Literacy of Nursing Students for Sustainable Environment
Authors: Örs Mukaddes
Published: August 2022

Environmental literate citizenship is a lifelong learning process that aims to develop citizens who have the knowledge, skills, and commitment to make responsible decisions that will affect the quality of the environment. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the environmental literacy levels of nursing students in terms of sustainable environmental by considering the dimensions of environmental literacy. It was also aimed at understanding the correlation among dimensions of environmental literacy and revealing the factors affecting the dimensions of environmental literacy. This research was designed as a descriptive study in the survey model. A total of 278 nursing students participated in this research. It was revealed that students obtained a high score for use and concern from the dimensions of environmental literacy, their attitudes towards the environment were moderate; however, nursing students took the lowest points for the environmental knowledge component, which indicates that students need support in environmental knowledge. It was put forward that there were statistically significant differences based on gender and taking environmental related courses with dimensions of environmental literacy. All dimensions of environmental literacy were found to be positively correlated with each other, ranging from low to moderate relations.
A Study of the Jacobi Stability of the Rosenzweig–MacArthur Predator–prey System by the KCC Geometric Theory
Authors: Munteanu Florian
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we will consider an autonomous two-dimensional ODE Kolmogorov type 1 system with three parameters, which is a particular system of the general predator–prey systems with 2 a Holling type II. By reformulating this system as a set of two second order differential equations, we 3 will investigate the nonlinear dynamics of the system from the Jacobi stability point of view, using 4 the Kosambi-Cartan-Chern (KCC) geometric theory. We will determine the nonlinear connection, the 5 Berwald connection and the five KCC-invariants which express the intrinsic geometric properties 6 of the system, including the deviation curvature tensor. Furthermore, we will obtain necessary and 7 sufficient conditions on the parameters of the system in order to have the Jacobi stability near the 8 equilibrium points and we will point out these on a few examples.
Investigating Value Co-creation in Crowdsourcing: The Revelatory Case of the Shield
Authors: He Hee Rui , Zhang Xingnan , Jing Dian
Published: August 2022

As a typical form of value co-creation, crowdsourcing has been increasingly applied by firms to generate business value. By engaging a crowd, a platform, and other stakeholders, a crowdsourcer can foster the co-creation of a portfolio of value for diverse stakeholders. In analyzing the value co-creation in crowdsourcing, we propose a framework by combining the theories and frameworks in value co-creation and crowdsourcing. The framework examines the key stakeholders, joint purpose, engaged value co-creation processes, contributions, bidirectional relationships of the engagement, and perceived value, exhibiting a holistic view of the value co-creation in a crowdsourcing project. Results of the analysis reveal the business performance of the crowdsourcing project and identify areas of improvement regarding business sustainability. This is a major theoretical contribution of this study. The research design applied a case study approach to empirically investigate a crowdsourcing project. Both the theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
The Impact of Low Cardiac Output on Propofol Pharmacokinetics across Age Groups - an Investigation using Physiologically based Pharmacokinetic Modelling
Authors: Allegaert Karel , Abbasi Mohammad Yaseen , Michelet Robin , Olafuyi Olusola
Published: August 2022

Background: pathophysiological changes like low cardiac output (LCO) impact pharmacokinetics, but its extent may be different throughout pediatrics compared to adults. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling enables further exploration. Methods: A validated propofol model was used to simulate the impact of LCO on propofol clearance across age groups using the PBPK platform, Simcyp® (version 19). The hepatic and renal extraction ratio of propofol was then determined in all age groups. Subsequently, dose explorations were conducted under LCO conditions, targeting a 3 µg/mL (80-125%) propofol concentration range. Results: Both hepatic and renal extraction ratios increased from neonates, infants, children to adolescents and adults. The relative change in clearance following CO reductions increased with age, with the least impact of LCO in neonates. The predicted concentration remained within the 3 µg/mL (80-125%) range under normal CO and LCO (up to 30%) conditions in all age groups. When CO was reduced by 40-50%, a dose reduction of 15% is warranted in neonates, infants and children, 25% in adolescents and adults. Conclusions: PBPK driven, the impact of reduced CO on propofol clearance is predicted to be age-dependent, proportionally greater in adults. Consequently, age group specific dose reductions for propofol are required in LCO conditions.
Field Observations of the Behaviour of Blackfin Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus)
Authors: Porcher Ila France
Published: August 2022

The chondrichthyan lineage diverged from the osteichthyan line 440 million years ago, resulting in a vast evolutionary gulf between modern elasmobranchs and other vertebrates. Though this has supported the assumption that sharks are ancient, dangerous, and binary-minded, the few ethological studies done have noted intelligent actions including social exchanges. Yet their behaviour remains little known. On seeing that Carcharhinus melanopterus displayed complex actions during incidental meetings, a long-term ethological study of the species was carried out using artificial aggregations, at several sites in the fringe lagoon of Mo’orea Island, French Polynesia. Short and long-term behaviour was recorded in 473 individuals, including an ethogram, roaming patterns, social interactions, and cognition. C. melanopterus is considered sedentary, yet the home range could also be viewed as a place to pause between travels, for most individuals left for long periods. The study community and its visitors travelled in correlation with the lunar phase, in groups of up to six individuals, socializing with conspecifics encountered along the way, and displaying fluid social dynamics. C. melanopterus was highly alert to danger yet prone to investigate novel objects, a combination that generated a variety of tactics to remain hidden while investigating the environment. Basic to this was the use of the visual limit for escape or to screen their presence, indicating an awareness of being present and observable. Using their other senses, they could focus their attention on events beyond visual range and made swift decisions to act as circumstances unfolded. In their non-territorial, non-hierarchical society, any shark could lead, but it was usually the same ones that did so. Therefore, unusual individuals had a significant effect on events through social learning, suggesting the potential for culture. Actions in a variety of situations suggested complex cognition, and individuals displayed both positive and negative subjective states including playfulness.
C*-algebraic Bieberbach, Robertson, Lebedev-Milin, Zalcman, Krzyz and Corona Conjectures
Authors: KRISHNA K. MAHESH
Published: August 2022

We study C*-algebraic versions of following conjectures/theorems: (1) Bieberbach conjecture (de Branges theorem) (2) Robertson conjecture (3) Lebedev-Milin conjecture (4) Zalcman conjecture (5) Krzyz conjecture (6) Corona conjecture (Carleson theorem). We prove that the C*-algebraic Bieberbach Conjecture for invertible coefficients is true for second degree C*-algebraic polynomials.
Molecular Epidemiology and Virulence of Non-Typhoidal Salmonella in Armenia
Authors: Sedrakyan Anahit , Ktsoyan Zhanna , Arakelova Karine , Gevorgyan Zaruhi , Zakharyan Magdalina , Hakobyan Shoghik , Hovhannisyan Alvard , Arakelyan Arsen , Aminov Rustam
Published: August 2022

In this work, we analysed human isolates of nontyphoidal Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica (NTS), which were collected from salmonellosis cases in Armenia from 1996 to 2019. This disease became a leading food-borne bacterial infection in the region, with the younger age groups especially affected. The isolates were characterised by serotyping, Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC-PCR) typing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS). The main serotypes were S. Typhimurium, S. Enteritidis, and S. Arizonae. ERIC-PCR indicated a high degree of clonality among S. Typhimurium strains, which were also multidrug-resistant and produced extended spectrum beta-lactamases. During the study period, the frequency of S. Typhimurium and S. Arizonae isolations were decreasing, but with the increase of S. Enteritidis and other NTS. A total of 42 NTS isolates were subjected to WGS and explored for virulence-related traits and the corresponding genetic elements. Some virulence and genetic factors were shared by all NTS serotypes, while the main differences were attributed to the serotype-specific diversity of virulence genes, SPIs, virulence plasmids, and phages. The results indicated the variability and dynamics in the epidemiology of salmonellosis and a high virulence potential of human NTS isolates circulating in the region.
DEFERRED SOLUTIONS METHOD DEVELOPMENT FOR CONSTRUCTING A HAMILTONIAN CYCLE SEARCH ALGORITHM ON A GRAPH
Authors: Prokopenkov Vladymyr
Published: August 2022

The subject of research is the solution of the problem of finding a Hamiltonian cycle on a graph, which belongs to the NP complexity class. The aim of the work is to develop an effective polynomial algorithm for its optimal solution. The paper analyzes the problem and the existing methods of its solution, identifies the shortcomings of these methods. It is showing that the main obstacle remains the inability to formulate the conditions for finding the optimal solution. As a result, the methods for solving this problem based on enumeration over acceptable solutions or on intuitive heuristics. Heuristic methods do not guarantee finding the optimal solution. Enumeration methods are popular because of a simple linear search scheme in a pre-known set of valid solutions to the problem. They allow you to find the optimal solution, but require a lot of time. In enumeration algorithms, valid solutions can be obtain by using graph traversal algorithms, but the factorial cost of enumeration requires reducing the enumeration space, for example, using the branch-and-bound method. This method is based on an ordered search of acceptable solutions, considering only the most promising ones, and discarding at once the whole sets of solutions that are not such. For the method to work, it is important to determine the cost function of a partial solution that depends on certain parameters, which is difficult, and perhaps impossible for the problem under consideration. If the function generates a probabilistic estimate, there is a risk of losing the optimal solution to the problem when it is discarding. The only reliable estimate for a valid solution is the length of the cycle, which, unfortunately, becoming known after its formation. As an alternative, the article proposes a new method of deferred solutions, according to which all possible partial solutions are constructed and stored simultaneously. Each partial solution is characterizing by its own evaluation. At each step, a partial solution is completing by adding a vertex to it, to which you can go from its last vertex – as many new partial solutions are building, as there are options for going from its last vertex. The generated partial solutions are saving, and the current worked-out solution is deleting. To perform the next step, the partial solution that has the smallest length estimate is selecting. Execution continues until the optimal solution is not build. The proposed method solves the problem under consideration, but its application for large graphs requires the selection of a correct estimate of partial solutions.
INFORMATION AND ANALYTICAL SUPPORT OF GENDER AUDIT OF EDUCATIONAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Fesenko Tetiana , Kovalenko Andriy , Tkachov Vitalii , Fesenko Galyna , Yeroshenko Olha
Published: August 2022

Contemporary requirements for a gender-responsive educational management system with an emphasis on the STEM industry is outlined. The need for the use of gender audit of higher education institutions (HEI) is indicated. It is noted that the management system should be capable of greater integration of gender-sensitive components. A matrix of parameters of gender maturity of the organizational system of HEI is proposed. It includes five basic principles of gender equality defined by the World Economic Forum (“gender equality in the workplace”, “gender-balanced management”, “gender-equitable organizational processes”, “promoting equal participation of women and men in decision-making”, “promoting development of the leadership potential of women”). The contextual requirements for a gender-responsive educational management system are structured. G. Kerzner's project management maturity model was applied to improve the author's method of measuring gender activity in HEI. The results of an experimental study of assessing the gender maturity of the management system are presented on the example of Ukrainian universities.
STRATEGIC BRAND PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Authors: Akhiiezer Olena , Holotaistrova Halyna , Gomozov Yevgen , Mats Vladyslav , Rogovyi Anton
Published: August 2022

In the past twenty years or so, three approaches to brand portfolio management strategies have emerged. The first approach is marketing. This approach is associated with building a corporate brand portfolio. The goal is to increase diversified cash flows by entering new market segments. The second approach is related to the competitive strategy of the enterprise. A false portfolio of intellectual property applications is being created. Competitors are expected to spend resources in retaliation. The third approach is the formation of a dynamic strategy for investment portfolio management. Due to the complex structure of the modern global financial market, the heterogeneous structure of available financial instruments and traders using different approaches and time horizons, forecasts, as a rule, require a large number of observations, work poorly in the vicinity of bifurcations and do not have a computer model that could build forecasts in real time. In such structures, slow diffusion-type processes with the phenomenon of memory arise, that is, non-Markov processes. Moreover, such structures can have fractal properties. In this work, it seems to us, the first step has been taken to build a "synthetic" model of dynamic asset portfolio management. By analyzing the data available in the scientific literature, a mathematical model of strategic brand portfolio management is proposed. In view of the above, the model has the form of a differential equation in fractional derivatives. In connection with the risk analysis, two models of fractional entropy are also considered - fractional Kolmogorov-Sinai entropy and fractional Shannon entropy.
FEATURES OF FORMING THE IT PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM
Authors: Blyznyukova Iryna , Teslenko Pavlo , Malakhova Diana
Published: August 2022

The analysis of formation and management of the team of IT projects is carried out. The dependence of the criteria of team formation and structure on the type of software product creation technology is shown. A comparison between the definitions "project team (executives team)" and "project management team" is presented. The paper shows the need to create an additional IT project management team to improve the efficiency of its management and ensure successful completion. The proposals are based on the results of the analysis of the real project on the basis of the responsibility matrix. It is possible to identify the shortcomings of the formed team of the IT project, in terms of implementation of project team members of different types of work, for different competencies, which reduced productivity. Based on this, another team was proposed, which included a team of managers, which gave better results in terms of cost and duration of the project. The newly formed team had greater productivity, as the channels of interaction with project managers are set up correctly. The project management team, which was added to the existing project, helped to improve all indicators of the project implementation. The use of an IT project management team will be important and necessary for teams that use Design Thinking technology. The decision on the advisability of creating an IT project management team should be based on the criteria: "advantages and disadvantages of project management efficiency". The disadvantage of using a project management team will be an increase in the number of people if the criterion was to minimize them, or an increase in the budget if it is calculated on a monthly salary of contractors. As the evaluation criteria are optimization of team management processes, application of competency approach, reduction of multitasking and professional development, the project management team, as an additional organizational structure of the project, certainly has advantages and is recommended for use.
PENGEMBANGAN MODUL PEMBUATAN TES ASESMEN KOMPETENSI MINIMUM PADA PLATFORM E-LEARNING BERBASIS MOODLE UNTUK GURU SEKOLAH
Authors: Mutoharoh M , Muliyati Dewi , Simanjuntak Bintang Ronauli
Published: August 2022

One of the objectives of implementing the Minimum Competency Assessment (AKM) is to show how to master the essential competencies needed in various subjects. At the same time, digital formats must be integrated at every level of education, including the assessment process. Responding to the latest regulations regarding assessment and advances in digital technology requires teachers to have a combination of content and support skills. This study aims to develop an integrated media and environment for in-service teachers to improve their skills in creating AKM tests. The resulting test is designed according to variations in Moodle-based e-learning. This platform was chosen because many schools use Moodle as a Learning Management System (LMS). The study was conducted using the research and development method of the Thiagarajan 4D model, with the steps of define, design, develop, and disseminate. The development results include products, skills improvement, and a portfolio of user implementation results.
Preperitoneal Pelvic Packing for Hypotension Has a Greater Risk of Venous Thromboembolism Than Angioembolization
Authors: Patterson Joseph T. , Wier Julian , Gary Joshua L.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Patients with traumatic pelvic ring injury may present with hypotension secondary to hemorrhage. Preperitoneal pelvic packing (PPP) and angioembolization (AE) are alternative interventions for management of hypotension associated with pelvic ring injury refractory to resuscitation and circumferential compression. We hypothesized that PPP may be independently associated with increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) compared with AE in patients with hypotension and pelvic ring injury.

Methods:

Adult patients with pelvic ring injury and hypotension managed with PPP or AE were retrospectively identified in the Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database from 2015 to 2019. Patients were matched on a propensity score for receiving PPP based on patient, injury, and treatment factors. The primary outcome was the risk of VTE after matching on the propensity score for treatment. The secondary outcomes included inpatient clinically important deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, respiratory failure, mortality, unplanned reoperation, sepsis, surgical site infection, hospital length of stay, and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay.

Results:

In this study, 502 patients treated with PPP and 2,439 patients treated with AE met inclusion criteria. After propensity score matching on age, smoking status, Injury Severity Score, Tile B or C pelvic ring injury, bilateral femoral fracture, serious head injury, units of plasma and platelets given within 4 hours of admission, laparotomy, and level-I trauma center facility designation, 183 patients treated with PPP and 183 patients treated with AE remained. PPP, compared with AE, was associated with a 9.8% greater absolute risk of VTE, 6.5% greater risk of clinically important deep vein thrombosis, and 4.9% greater risk of respiratory failure after propensity score matching.

Conclusions:

PPP for the management of hypotension associated with pelvic ring injury is associated with higher rates of inpatient VTE events and sequelae compared with AE.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
A community engagement framework using mental modeling : the Seven Mile Island Innovation Lab community engagement pilot—Phase I
Authors: Thorne Sarah , Kovacs David , Gailani Joseph , Suedel Burton
Published: August 2022

The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) engages and collaborates with multiple stakeholders—from agency partners, to public, private, and not-for-profit organizations, to community residents—to develop its dredged-sediment long-term management strategy (LTMS) that expands benefi-cial-use (BU) practices. In spring 2019, USACE collaborated with Decision Partners, the USACE–Philadelphia District Operations Division, The Wetlands Institute, and the Engineering With Nature program leadership to adapt, test, and refine the proven behavioral-science-based processes, methods, and tools based on Decision Partners’ Mental Modeling Insight, or MMI, approach for engaging stakeholders, including community members, as part of the Seven Mile Island Innovation Laboratory (SMIIL) initiative in coastal New Jersey. The team identified key community stakeholders and conducted research to better understand their values, interests, priorities, and preferences regarding wetlands and USACE activities in the Seven Mile Island area and those activities’ effects on wetlands, including protecting the environment, wildlife habitat, aesthetic beauty, maintaining navigability, and supporting coastal resilience. Understanding stakeholder needs, values, interests, priorities, and preferences is key to designing effective engagement strategies for diverse communities for SMIIL and provides a foundation for the community engagement framework currently being developed for application across USACE.
The Lower Cretaceous Tuburan Limestone of Cebu Island, Philippines: Microfacies, micropalaeontology, biostratigraphy, and palaeogeographic perspectives
Authors: Rodrigo Jerali , Schlagintweit Felix
Published: August 2022

The occurrence of orbitolinid-bearing shallow water limestone blocks (Tuburan Limestone) incorporated into the volcanic series from Cebu Island, Central Philippines, has been known since the 1950's. Taxonomic studies including solid biostratigraphic data however are lacking or not substantiated. Herein we report the occurrence of Mesorbitolina texana (Roemer), transitional forms between M. texana and M. subconcava (Leymerie), Mesorbitolina birmanica (Sahni), Palaeodictyoconus actinostoma Arnaud-Vanneau & Schroeder, Neorbitolinopsis conica (Matsumaru), Paracoskinolina sp. and other benthic foraminifera (Akcaya, Praechrysalidina, Vercorsella) indicating a latest Aptian age. The previously accepted Late Albian age for the Tuburan Limestone based on Neorbitolinopsis conulus (Douvillé) is rejected herein and suggested as a misidentification with the recently revised Aptian - Lower Albian Neorbitolinopsis conica (Matsumaru). The general poverty of Lower Cretaceous dictyoconids in the Tuburan Limestone is interpreted as being caused by the lack of suitable extensive lagoonal facies that is generally typical for carbonate platforms of passive continental margins. The observed microfacies types instead refer to external platform margin settings with corals, stromatoporoids, sclerosponges (e.g., Acanthochaetetes), and planktic foraminifera. The recovered (micro) fauna from Cebu Island shows striking similarities to assemblages reported from Western and Mid-Pacific guyots but with indicated younger ages (up to the late Albian) based on data that - in our opinion - do not stand up to close scrutiny. Finally, a model is proposed interpreting the Tuburan Limestone from Cebu Island as remnants of a former carbonate cover of a guyot that originated as a volcanic island in the Western-Central Pacific, and later became incorporated into an accretionary wedge/mélange zone due to subduction-collisional processes.
Competent and Employed: STEM alumni perspectives on undergraduate research and NACE career-readiness competencies
Authors: Newell Mi'Kayla , Ulrich Paul
Published: August 2022

There have been large increases in the number of STEM graduates in the United States, but the majority of growth in non-healthcare, career opportunities are limited to computer specialists and engineering. Thus, two challenges await STEM students upon graduation: strong competition and employer concerns that applicants lack general competencies and work experience. Universities have responded to employer concerns with initiatives to enhance career readiness by embedding sets of competencies throughout curricula. However, these competencies have not been situated in STEM contexts and are derived largely from surveys of representatives from large companies who are unfamiliar with the job requirements specific to STEM positions. The current study uses a mixed methods approach as a first step to investigate the National Association of Colleges and Employers Career-Readiness Competencies in STEM with alumni who have participated in UREs and are currently employed in STEM careers. We propose that institutions can simultaneously situate skill development in STEM and provide meaningful, work-like experience through undergraduate research experiences (UREs). Findings demonstrate that UREs provide a fertile ground for the integration of career related competencies into undergraduate curricula and suggest institutions should strategically implement career-readiness competencies that reflect the priorities of STEM employers.  

Keywords: STEM, career readiness, NACE competencies, alumni, undergraduate research experiences, employment
Easy Life with Automated Digitalised Analytic Tools for Well Integrity Management for Unstructured Brown Field
Authors: Wejwittayaklung Kittipat , Nadoon Apiwat , Hnuruang Kittithuch , Pirom Pavin , Promwikorn Potchara , Jirajindakul Prasert , Chandakaew Rossawan , Singsa-Nga Supoth , Kunpitaktakun Takonpran , Toempromraj Wararit , Yokrat Yaovanart , Konganuntragul Pornchuda
Published: August 2022

To ensure all wells are in good and safe condition and can be operated as designed, the well integrity of individual wells must be maintained. However, lack of utilization and analysis of the well integrity status in brownfields with lots of qualitative data, the different well integrity standards, especially in newly acquired assets with unconsolidated well integrity database, and limited resources. The Well Integrity Management project was then proposed, and the Visualization Management Platform (VMP) was created.

The VMP will centralize the well integrity database for all operating assets, develop a "Well Failure Model" for better classification of well integrity problems with the right actions to be taken, and develop a visualization of well integrity status using the business intelligent application in Power BI, for mapping well integrity status with other critical related key information i.e. production performance, remaining reserves, and integrity records. It will automatically generate a work plan based on the priority to be executed, well location distance, and weather forecast, automatically generate a work program to reduce the engineer's task, and automatically send an alert notification to the related person to prevent overdue tracking.

More than 3,000 wells have been effectively monitored and managed thru this platform with limited resources. The VMP defines and provides the operating standards and guidelines to maintain well integrity, ensuring safe well operations. The system can provide real-time monitoring for better planning and minimizing backlog, better decision making on well utilization management, set the priority for well maintenance, and create an efficient Workplan for well services working team, as well as minimize routine tasks for an engineer in issuing well integrity work program. Moreover, the system will send an auto alert to the responsible person when there is any issue about well integrity to reduce work process cycle time which will reduce the potential risks to well equipment and personnel. The system is also useful for plug and abandonment when wells have come to the end of their lives because it contains information about the history well activities and current well status. Not only do the existing operating asset get benefits from this platform but also the management and the asset team.

Digital technologies were used for real-time extracting information from several types of data formats, integrating it into the data lake in Google Cloud Platform, and demonstrating in the Business intelligent tools. This was the showcase to apply the digital tools supporting the brown field's well integrity management to improve the well assurance and make your wells safe for everyday operations.
Understanding Thermo-Poroelastic Mechanical Stress Induced Damages in Network of Pre-Existing Fractures During Drilling Operation
Authors: Gomar Mostafa , Elahifar Behzad
Published: August 2022

In drilling the reservoir sections of a well, one of the most challenging issues is reducing damage to the reservoir by controlling downhole pressure. Many drilling techniques such as underbalanced drilling (UBD) and managed pressure drilling (MPD) are employed to minimize the risks associated with drilling as well as to minimize damage to the porous rock. Even though chemical and physical damages may be short-term and could be repaired by some stimulation techniques, the long-term effects of mechanical damages in porous and fractured reservoirs have received insufficient attention. Accordingly, not only could the above drilling techniques be applied to solve downhole drilling problems, but they also may be used to reduce induced mechanical damages in fractured rocks.

This article presents a new method for modeling changes in fracture permeability caused by drilling in fractured rocks. As part of the approach, the finite element method (FEM) is employed to conduct a thermo-poroelastic analysis of stress distributions around the borehole and the displacement discontinuity method (DDM) is used to model fracture deformations. Based on different fracture spacings and fracture inclination angles, we have considered models of regular fracture networks in the present study. This study focuses on the differences in permeability in underbalanced and overbalanced drilling operations that are compared together in different models.

Effective stress differences (over 40 MPa) were found along and around borehole periphery. Shear stresses in the oblique fracture network also governed aperture change. Short-term mechanical stresses and long-term thermal and fluid pressures determine the fracture aperture. In the long run, fluid pressure and thermal stresses contribute to long term permeability change of fractures while mechanical stresses cause a short-term change. Underbalanced drilling was simulated to reduce fracture permeability, while cooling and pressurizing of rock encouraged fracture permeability without considering solid particle plugging. Fracture aperture adopts a seesaw pattern in a small-spaced fracture network. When the fracture aperture increases in a fracture, the neighboring fractures experience decreased apertures. Despite the drilling method, fractures intersecting boreholes have reduced permeability after drilling for a long time, as they choked in a few locations along the fracture length.

At present, the industry considers managed pressure and underbalanced drilling to be the priority for resolving drilling problems. This paper investigates stress-induced damages in fractured rocks under overbalanced and underbalanced drilling conditions. It is also of significant interest in geothermal reservoirs, where the temperature difference between the rock and the well bore fluid is large. Furthermore, such an analysis would provide the optimal well location from a geomechanical and reservoir engineering standpoint.
InSight: Corrosion-Wise Monitoring Tool Empowered by Robot Process Automation
Authors: Wejwittayaklung Kittipat , Piyakunkiat Nuttapon
Published: August 2022

InSight is the corrosion-wise monitoring tool that aims for facilitating the engineers in input data consolidation and corrosion analysis. By using the Robot Process Automation (RPA) digital tool and Business Intelligent (BI) tools, this time-consuming process will be dramatically expedited. Now, the project scope is only to analyze and monitor field integrity e.g., surface piping and downhole well tubing. However, it can be scaled up to other applications and business areas.

RPA on the engineering software requires detailed steps and layers of commands. Developing the new RPA engine is a more flexible and generic way to manipulate the engineering software. The well test data stored in the database was linked to the on-premises server in which the RPA engine and corrosion simulation were deployed and installed. After daily data arrived, the RPA will be automatically run and transfer the result of the corrosion analysis back into the database. BI tool then pulls the data from the database and visualizes the analysis result, also has an alarm function to responded parties.

InSight has been developed by PTTEP since 2020. RPA engine for two corrosion simulations was completely deployed namely PRECORR and OLI. Now running corrosion simulation is easy with just one click and over a thousand cases can be run within a day. Generally, this corrosion simulation via RPA is 9 times faster than the human. The engineers will then have more time to focus on data quality verification and the data analytics of the simulation result. The tool is quite flexible for the users. The data pulled from the daily database can be manually selected and corrected. In addition, a sensitivity analysis can be designed. Likewise, the result visualization can be customized. Subsequently, the actual field corrosion logging data or the laboratory corrosion tests can be tied in for the model calibration. Moreover, the tool can add more corrosion simulation software with additional effort. However, the main users are still improving the tool performance throughout the real use cases.

This RPA engine will change the world of routine corrosion simulation and monitoring. Also, it can be supplied to any routine engineering simulations. For this project, the well will be produced safely with close monitoring of corrosion and an alarm system.
Study on 4D Geomechanical Application in Fault Sealing Capacity Evaluation of Underground Gas Storage
Authors: Luo Yu , Li Longxin , Zhou Yuan , Li Limin , Zhao Yuchao , Wei Hua , Liu Qiyao , Liu Xiao , Huang Xingning , Singjaroen Thanapol
Published: August 2022

In order to ensure the national demand for peak shaving and supply guarantee, the project of Xiangguosi underground gas storage capacity expansion for target productivity has been proposed and being carried out. For the purpose of effectively guiding the optimization of the operation upper limit pressure of the gas storage and ensuring its long-term safe operation, it is urgently needed to carry out the assessment of the integrity of the cap rock of the gas storage and the stability of its faults. Based on geological, seismic, logging, dynamic monitoring data and core experimental data, this paper established static and dynamic geomechanical models of the gas storage and analyzed the characteristics of the in-situ stress of different layers of it to simulate and evaluate the stability of the cap rock, underpinning layer and faults of reservoir under different pore pressure. The results showed that 5 reservoir-controlling faults had no risk of fault activation in the early operation of the gas storage and the current stress conditions, with good sealing performance, and when the reservoir pressure was 6MPa higher than the original formation pressure, there was a risk of instability in the integrity of the gas storage. The research results finely and quantitatively evaluated the operation safety of the gas storage under the influence of the dynamic stress field, and had important guiding significance for the optimization of the operation plan of the gas storage.
Empowering Collaboration and Refining Acumen with Rig Acceptance Workflow Digitalization
Authors: Meor Hashim Meor M Hakeem , Norhashimi Lokman , Norazman Nor Ashraf , Arriffin M Faris
Published: August 2022

Current rig acceptance workflow practiced by many operators globally has been inefficient and this gap has been apparent for years. Redundancy, accountability issues and resource wastages can be quite complicated. In a typical workflow, the issues encountered include lack of accountability by inspectors toward item closure, inability to generate snapshots of current status, limited access, and an unfit sharing process. Report formats are not standardized across different disciplines hence the experience is not seamless as there is no one-stop center to view aviation, marine, and HSE inspection items. The digitalization of rig acceptance workflow can help to overcome these pain points by having a single platform to allow multidiscipline parties to keep tabs on rig activation status and updates throughout company-wide operations globally during the rig acceptance process. This initiative introduces a much leaner and more seamless method of conducting rig acceptance. Migrating the manual paper-based workflow to a web-based one-stop center for all things related to rig acceptance (i.e., marine, rig, HSE, and aviation) is the main strategy. It grants the ability for inspectors and designated personnel to insert comments for each finding as well as the ability for inspectors to assign and edit severity levels for each finding. The single platform approach allows the possibility to link up the other checklist and findings on the same system and immediately reduce the redundancy of certain items that is similar to other checklists, which can be streamlined online. Therefore, implementation of this Digital Rig Acceptance Workflow (DRAW) solution can produce a user-friendly online platform to allow inspectors, project teams, management, and rig equipment subject matter experts to access the system anywhere, anytime. DRAW allows status updates and clarifications to be communicated via a single platform. It utilizes data input to produce actionable insights hence generating direct business value via improving process cycle efficiency in a project's well life cycle.
Deploying Dynamic Trend-Based Monitoring System to Deliver Real Time Drilling Decision
Authors: Richard Bobbywadi , Saarani M Sazani , Sulaiman Suhaimi , Meor Hashim Meor M Hakeem , Arriffin M Faris , Ghazali Rohaizat
Published: August 2022

Significant technical challenges are prominent in today's oil and gas drilling operations, especially in remote locations with increasingly difficult geological settings. Stuck pipe incidents have become a major operational challenge, with events typically resulting in substantial amounts of lost time and associated costs. Real-time monitoring has emerged as an important tool to achieve drilling optimization in avoiding downtime, particularly stuck pipe events. With the addition of a predictive monitoring system, this process becomes much more effective and competent. Predictive monitoring is used for advanced real-time monitoring in the remote centre and operational workflows to aid in the drilling execution of complex or critical well sections. The emphasis will be on reducing the complexity of real-time data analysis by exploiting trends and anomalies between modelled and actual data to monitor wellbore conditions. This monitoring system and trend-based predictive capability enable drilling teams to detect borehole changes and take preventive action up to several hours in advance. Predictive monitoring can provide early warning of stuck pipe symptoms, allowing the rig and operations team to take corrective and step-by-step actions. The circumstances that lead to the stuck pipe can be difficult to detect as various factors may indicate potential problems. These are frequently missed until the situation has progressed to the point where the drill string becomes stuck. This system could have provided the rig crew with advance notice of changes in downhole conditions. An example of predictive monitoring adoption in a highly deviated extended reach well (ERD), with a 12,000ft long horizontal section is presented. It is exceptionally challenging in terms of geomechanics perspective as well as the well design. Predictive monitoring was implemented to assist drilling operation for the sidetracked well, and it had been completed successfully with minor hole condition issues. The predictive monitoring system is built around a trio of tightly coupled real-time dynamic models consisting of hydraulic, mechanical, and thermodynamic that simulate the wellbore state and physical processes during drilling operations. These models work simultaneously in a seamless process to assess drilling performance, borehole conditions, and related associated risks. It uses dynamic modelling to accurately model key drilling parameters and variables, allowing better monitoring.