bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental and economic effects of water and deflation destruction of steppe soil in Ukraine
Authors: Dudiak Nataliia , Pichura Vitalii , Potravka Larisa , Stratichuk Natalia
Published: November 2023

Water and wind erosion are the most powerful factors in the decrease of soil fertility and a threat to food security. The study was conducted on the steppe zone in Ukraine (total area of 167.4 thous. km2), including agricultural land (131.6 thous. km2). At the first stage, the modeling of spatial differentiation of water and wind erosion manifestations was carried out to calculate losses of soil (Mg·ha–1) and to determine their degradation. At the second stage, soil-climatic bonitet of zonal soils (points) is carried out to determine their natural fertility (Mg·ha–1). At the third stage, the spatial adjustment of the natural soil fertility to the negative effect of erosion was carried out. This made it possible to calculate crop losses and total financial losses due to water and wind erosion. The integrated spatial modeling showed that about 68.7% of arable land was constantly affected by the combined erosion, in particular the area of low eroded arable land (16.8%), and medium and highly eroded land (22.1%). Due to erodibility of soil, about 23.3% of agricultural land transferred from the category of high and medium quality to medium, low and very low quality, which is caused by the loss of soil fertility of up to 70%, crop losses of up to 1.93 Mg·ha–1 ha–1 and eduction of agricultural income up to 390 USD·ha–1. In the steppe region under the research, gross crop losses from erosion were up to 15.11 thous. Mg·ha–1 (3.05 mln USD). In order to protect soils, improve fertility and increase crop yields in the steppe zone in Ukraine, the following measures were suggested: adaptive and landscape erosion control design with elements of conservation farming in accordance with the spatial differentiation of soil quality and extent of water erosion deflation danger.
Hydrological responses to large-scale changes in land cover of river watershed: Review
Authors: Muhammed Hadi H. , Mustafa Andam M. , Kolerski Tomasz
Published: November 2023

Despite many studies on the hydrological responses to forest cover changes in micro and mesoscale watersheds, the hydrological responses to forest cover alterations and associated mechanisms through the large spatial scale of the river watershed have not been comprehensively perceived. This paper thus reviews a wide range of available scientific evidence concerning the impacts exerted by the forest removal on precipitation, water yield, stream flow, and flow regimes. It is concluded that there is no statistical correlation between forest cover and precipitation and water yield at the micro and mesoscale. In contrast, there is a relative correlation coefficient ( r = 0.77, p < 0.05) between forest cover and water yield at large scales (>1000 km2). These findings help our understanding of the hydrological response to forest disturbance at large and regional scale and provide a scientific perception to future watershed management in the context of human activities and natural hazards.
Assessment of submerged floor water jets to minimize the scour downstream from a stepped spillway
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Diwedar Al Sayed Ibrahim , Ibraheem Ahmed Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

Because of hydraulic jump, the scour downstream a stepped spillway is the most confusing issue that endangers the overall stability of the spillway. In this paper, thirty-six exploratory runs are described to explore the impact of utilizing submerged water jets fixed in the stilling basin of a stepped spillway on the downstream scour measurements under various flow conditions. A smooth apron where the water jets are disabled is incorporated to characterize the impact of adjustments studied. Trials are performed utilizing different upstream discharges, jets arrangements, and tailwater depths. The results are analyzed and graphically presented. The experimental data are contrasted to a scour formulae developed by other specialists. Outcomes indicated that by utilizing submerged floor water jets, the maximum scour depth is decreased between 14.3 and 36.0%. Additionally, the maximum scour length is reduced by 9.7 to 42.3%. Finally, involving regression analysis, simple formulas are developed to estimate different scour parameters.
Comparing automatic baseflow separation filters on three watersheds in the urbanised area of East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Indarto Indarto , Hardiansyah Mujiono , Sujarwo Mohamad Wawan
Published: November 2023

Baseflow is the primary source of water for irrigation and other water needs during prolonged dry periods; accurate and rapid estimation of baseflow is therefore crucial for water resource allocation. This research aims to estimate baseflow contribution during dry periods in three small watersheds in East Java: Surabaya-Perning (114 km2), Lamong-Simoanggrok (235 km2), and Bangsal-Kedunguneng (26 km2). Six recursive digital filters (RDFs) algorithms are explored using a procedure consisting of calibration, validation, evaluation and interpretation. In this study, the period of July to September is considered as the peak of the dry season. Moreover, data for the period 1996 to 2005 is used to calibrate the algorithms. By yearly averaging, values are obtained for the parameters and then used to test performance during the validation period from 2006 to 2015. Statistical analysis, flow duration curves and hydrographs are used to evaluate and compare the performance of each algorithm. The results show that all the filters explored can be applied to estimate baseflow in the region. However, the Lyne–Hollick (with RMSE = 0.022, 0.125, 0.010 and R2 = 0.951, 0.968, 0.712) and exponentially weighted moving average or EWMA (with RMSE = 0.022, 0.124, 0.009 and R2 = 0.957, 0.968, 0.891) for the three sub-watersheds versions give the best performance.
Investigation of nickel adsorption onto low Jordanian zeolite dose: efficiency and Langmuir – Freundlich behaviour
Authors: Al-Ghazawi Ziad , Qasaimeh Ahmad , Al-Bataina Bilal
Published: November 2023

In this work, nickel adsorption onto low Jordanian zeolite dose is being investigated. Natural zeolite doses were stirred continuously with nickel solutions in batch reactors at 180 RPM for 24 hours, where the temperature was set to 20°C. The pH was initially 4.5 and reached 5.2 at equilibrium. The removal efficiency of nickel reaches maximum value when the initial nickel concentration is around 1 ppm and then tends to decrease when the initial nickel concentration increases above 1 ppm. The optimal nickel removal reaches 65% when the initial nickel concentration is 1 ppm and the zeolite dose is 26 mg·dm–3. This study investigates the behaviour of nickel removal and modelling isotherms below and above this critical peak point. At this level of zeolite dose, the adsorption does not follow either Freundlich or Langmuir isotherms, but rather, it follows Freundlich for the data plot just below the peak point with the highest coefficient of determination (R2) equals (0.98) when the zeolite dose is (26 mg·dm–3), whereas it follows Langmuir for the data plot just above the peak point with the highest coefficient of determination (R2) equals (0.99) when the zeolite dose is (10 mg·dm–3). These findings clarify the theory behind each isotherm and can be used to find new information for efficient treatment techniques.
Hydrogeochemical processes and evaluation of groundwater in Al-Salman area – Iraqi Southern Desert
Authors: Al-Mutawqi Kareem Ghafel , Ewaid Salam Hussein , Abed Salwan Ali , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Salim Mudhafar A. , Kadhim Ameer J.
Published: November 2023

A field survey has been conducted for the study area using the Global Positioning System (GPS) and geological and geomorphological maps of the area. The study area is one of the important areas in Iraq characterized by scarce water resources. The purpose of the study is to determine the hydro-chemical processes and their relationship to groundwater quality carried out in the southwestern desert region of Iraq, where the region lacks extensive studies of water resources. Twenty-eight groundwater samples were collected from wells distributed between the eastern borders of Saudi Arabia and the West Bank of the Euphrates River. For the purpose of hydrogeochemical analyses, the Fetter method was used to collect and examine samples. A large part of the recharge area is located in Saudi Arabia, where the groundwater bearing aquifer represented by the Dammam formation extends to Iraq and Saudi Arabian International borders. The analysis determined the order of cations (Na+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+) and anions (Cl– > SO42– > HCO3–). High values of the variation coefficient (CV) correspond to the concentration of potassium, sodium and chloride ions (CV: 68.7, 64.7 and 64 respectively). To identify the hydrochemical water facies, the Piper diagram was used. It was found that 53% of the water samples belong to the Na-Cl type and 40% are of the Ca-Mg-Cl type, while the rest of the samples are the Ca-Cl type. To identify geochemical processes, it was found that ion exchange processes via chloroalkaline indices 1 and 2 are prevalent between Ca2+, Mg2+ in the groundwater and Na+, K+ in water bearing rocks. To learn more about the processes that led to the concentration of certain ions, such as sodium, it was found that they tend to be of silicate minerals related to surface runoff of water in recharge areas and carbonic rocks. It was also found that rock / soil-groundwater interaction and evaporation processes were the formal processes in the saturated zone and evaporation in the unsaturated zone are prevalent processes of groundwater ion concentration.
Dynamic modelling of an anaerobic reactor treating coffee wet wastewater via multiple regression model
Authors: Guardia-Puebla Yans , Llanes-Cedeño Edilberto , Domínguez-León Ana Velia , Arias-Cedeño Quirino , Sánchez-Girón Víctor , Morscheck Gert , Eichler-Löbermann Bettina
Published: November 2023

A multiple regression model approach was developed to estimate buffering indices, as well as biogas and methane productions in an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor treating coffee wet wastewater. Five input variables measured (pH, alkalinity, outlet VFA concentration, and total and soluble COD removal) were selected to develop the best models to identify their importance on methanation. Optimal regression models were selected based on four statistical performance criteria, viz. Mallow’s Cp statistic (Cp), Akaike information criterion ( AIC), Hannan– Quinn criterion ( HQC), and Schwarz–Bayesian information criterion ( SBIC). The performance of the models selected were assessed through several descriptive statistics such as measure of goodness-of-fit test (coefficient of multiple determination, R2; adjusted coefficient of multiple determination, Adj-R2; standard error of estimation, SEE; and Durbin–Watson statistic, DWS), and statistics on the prediction errors (mean squared error, MSE; mean absolute error, MAE; mean absolute percentage error, MAPE; mean error, ME and mean percentage error, MPE). The estimated model reveals that buffering indices are strongly influenced by three variables (volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration, soluble COD removal, and alkalinity); while, pH, VFA concentration and total COD removal were the most significant independent variables in biogas and methane production. The developed equation models obtained in this study, could be a powerful tool to predict the functionability and stability for the UASB system.
The efficiency of some fungi species in wastewater treatment
Authors: Kadhim Nuha F. , Mohammed Wathiq J. , Al Hussaini Ibtihal M. , Al-Saily Hala M.N. , Ali Rasha N.
Published: November 2023

Using microorganisms in eliminating or reducing the impacts of harmful remnants is very ancient manner. The current study was conducted to explore the potential of utilizing some fungi species that isolated from the main sewage treatment plant in Al-Muamirah area, Babylon-Iraq, in reducing some pollutants. Six fungi taxa Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. terrues, Candida albicans, C. krusei, and Penicillium digitatum were identified before any treatment process, whereas only four fungi species A. flavus 20%, A. niger 20%, A. terrues 10%, and P. digitatum 18% were recognized after completing the physical and chemical treatment stages. Only three taxa A. niger, A. terrues, and P. digitatum were employed to reveal their capability in treating the sewage water, which represent the biological treatment stage as the final step of the treatment processes. The results showed a considerable capability of these fungi species in decreasing many variables values such as pH, total soluble solids (TSS), electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, total alkalinity, chlorides, nitrite, and phosphate. Where, slightly low reduction was detected in TSS value in all experiments (1.1–5.9%), similarly, both EC and salinity which were decreased with low ratios (6.6%, 3.9%, respectively). Taxon A. terrues exhibited high ability in reducing the total alkalinity and chloride ions in the treated water (30.9%, 43%, respectively) in comparison with the other two fungi species. Furthermore, all three fungi species were posed high capability in decreasing nutrients, where both nitrite and phosphate ions were highly reduced (87–97% and 22.8–32.1%, respectively). Based on these findings, we suggest using other microorganisms and exploring their capacity in removing the pollutants, and revealing the ability of the above fungi taxa in removing other pollutants.
Modelling erosion and sedimentation in a small watershed, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Sujarwo Mohamad Wawan , Indarto Indarto , Mandala Marga
Published: November 2023

Changes in land use as a result of human activities may generate the alteration of hydrometeorological disasters. Erosion, sedimentation, floods and landslides frequently occur in the Sanenrejo watershed (±292 km2), located in East Java, Indonesia. In this paper, the soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model is used to evaluate the hydrological processes in this small watershed. The digital elevation model (DEM) is used as the primary input for deriving the topographic and physical properties of the watershed. Other input data used for the modelling processes include soil type, land use, observed discharge data and climate variables. These data are integrated into the SWAT to calculate discharge, erosion and sedimentation processes. The existing observed discharge data used to calibrate the SWAT output at the watershed outlet. The calibration results produce Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency ( NSE) of 0.62 and determination coefficient (R2) of 0.75, then the validation result of 0.5 (NSE) and 0.63 (R2). The middle area faced the highest erosion and sedimentation that potentially contribute to hydrometeorological disasters.
Groundwater quality assessment for drinking purposes using water quality index in Ali Al-Gharbi District, Iraq
Authors: Al-Shammary Sarteel Hamid Enad , Al-Mayyahi Sattar Obaid Maiws
Published: November 2023

The present study aimed to assess groundwater quality according to the water quality index (WQI) in Ali Al- Gharbi district of the Maysan Governorate in eastern Iraq. For this purpose, 10 physical parameters such as pH, total hardness ( TH), magnesium (Mg2+), calcium (Ca2+), potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), sulphate (SO42–), chloride (Cl–), nitrate (NO3–), and total dissolved solids ( TDSs) were examined since 2019 from 16 different locations (viz. wells). The analysis results indicated that 18.75% of the water samples were of good quality, 56.25% of them had low quality, and 25% of such samples were very poor. The WQI also varied from 69.67 and 297.6. Therefore, prior to water use, there is a dire need for some treatments, as protecting this district from pollution is significant.
Performance evaluation of HEC-HMS model for continuous runoff simulation of Gilgel Gibe watershed, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Fanta Sewmehon Sisay , Feyissa Tolera Abdissa
Published: November 2023

Hydrological models are widely used for runoff simulation throughout the world. The objective of this study is to check the performance of the HEC-HMS model for continuous runoff simulation of Gilgel Gibe watershed. It includes sensitivity analysis, calibration, and validation. The model calibration was conducted with data from the year 1991 to 2002 and validated for the year 2003 to 2013 period using daily observed stream flow near the outlet of the watershed. To check the consistency of the model, both the calibration and validation periods were divided into two phases. The sensitivity analysis of parameters showed that curve number (CN) and wave travel time (K) were the most sensitive, whereas channel storage coefficient (x) and lag time (tlag) were moderately sensitive. The model performance measured using Nash–Sutcliff Efficiency (NSE), Percentage of Bias (PBIAS), correlation coefficient (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and Percentage Error in Peak (PEP). The respective values were 0.795, 8.225%, 0.916, 27.105 m3 s–1 and 7.789% during calibration, and 0.795, 23.015%, 0.916, 29.548 m3 s–1 and –19.698% during validation. The result indicates that the HEC-HMS model well estimated the daily runoff and peak discharge of Gilgel Gibe watershed. Hence, the model is recommended for continuous runoff simulation of Gilgel Gibe watershed. The study will be helpful for efficient water resources and watershed management for Gilgel Gibe watershed. It can also be used as a reference or an input for any future hydrological investigations in the nearby un-gauged or poorly gauged watershed.
Application of the Triple Diagram Method in forecasting lake water level, on the example of Lake Charzykowskie
Authors: Piasecki Adam , Witkowski Wojciech T.
Published: November 2023

The work focused on forecasting changes in lake water level. The study employed the Triple Diagram Method (TDM) using geostatistical tools. TDM estimates the value by information from an earlier two periods of observation, refers as lags. The best results were obtained for data with an average a 1-week lag. At the significance level of 1σ, a the forecast error of ±2 cm was obtained. Using separate data for warm and cold months did not improve the efficiency of TDM. At the same time, analysis of observations from warm and cold months explained trends visible in the distribution of year-round data. The methodology, built on case study and proposed evaluation criteria, may function as a universal solution. The proposed methodology can be used to effectively manage water-level fluctuations both in postglacial lakes and in any case of water-level fluctuation.
Problem of water scarcity in agriculture – case study of land improvement in Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodship
Authors: Rudnicki Roman , Wiśniewski Łukasz
Published: November 2023

Today’s agriculture is facing a range of challenges, the most important of which is the adjustment to the changing climate. In this context, water management is particularly vital. Droughts in Poland are becoming more and more frequent. That fact adds to the significance of irrigation and drainage systems. This paper is an attempt at diagnosing the condition of (in 2016) and changes in (over the period of 2006–2016) irrigation and drainage systems in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodship (analysed by communes, until 2016 – according to Local Administrative Units – LAU level 2). The multidirectional analysis involves a comprehensive description of ameliorated lands, including the allocation of the EU funds dedicated for the support of flood protection and land improvement ventures. It has been demonstrated that the present condition of land improvement does not reflect the needs of the agriculture in the studied area and that the changes implemented on the ongoing basis fail to make the situation better. In 2016, slightly over 40% of agricultural acreage was ameliorated, while the level at which land improvement needs would be satisfied approximated 70%. In over 1/5 of the ameliorated area, facilities needed reconstruction or modernisation. Drainage systems were in the majority, which indicates that the current needs, i.e. water scarcity, are not addressed.
Elimination of organic matter by optimising coagulation treatment: Case of water from the Sidi Yacoub dam, Algeria
Authors: Hadbi Taieb , Abdelamir Saaed Hamoudi
Published: November 2023

The presence of natural organic matter (NOM) in water has a significant influence on water treatment processes. Water industries around the world consider coagulation/flocculation to be one of the main water treatment methods. The chief objective of conventional coagulation-based processes is to reduce the turbidity of the water and to remove natural organic matter (NOM) present in solutions. The aim of this paper is to present some developments in terms of improved coagulation for the drinking water of Sidi Yacoub treatment plant located in the Northwest of Algeria. The experiments involved studying the effects of the application of two coagulants (ferric chloride and aluminium sulphate) on the removal of turbidity and natural organic matter from water by measuring the chemical oxygen demand ( COD) and the UV absorbance at 254 nm. The results showed that the rate of turbidity removal increased from 81.3% to 88% when ferric chloride was applied and from 89.91% to 94% when aluminium sulphate was applied. For NOM removal, the maximum removal rates of COD and UV254 were 48% and 52%, respectively, in the case of ferric chloride. These rates increased to 59% and 65% after optimised coagulation. When aluminium sulphate was used, the rate of removal in water increased from 43% to 55% for COD and from 47% to 59% for UV254 after optimised coagulation. The combination of the two coagulants at equal dosage shows a slight improvement in the values obtained after optimisation, both in terms of turbidity and the NOM.
Use of pellets from agricultural biogas plants in fertilisation of oxytrees in Podlasie, Poland
Authors: Skibko Zbigniew , Romaniuk Waclaw , Borusiewicz Andrzej , Porwisiak Henryk , Lisowski Janusz
Published: November 2023

Agricultural biogas plants are not only a place for processing waste resulting from animal husbandry, but also for generating electricity and heat as well as organic fertiliser. In a four-year experiment, pellets were used as organic fertiliser in the establishment of an experiment with fast-growing oxytrees. The study aimed to investigate the growth and stem thickness increment, overwintering in the first and subsequent years of cultivation under the conditions of north-eastern Poland. The dried digestate and the pellets made from it were characterised by a high content of macroelements (N – 1,95%, P2O5 – 1,1%, K2O – 1,3%). The applied pellet from an agricultural biogas plant under oxytree seedlings due to its slow decomposition had a good effect on the growth of oxytrees in the second and third years. The average growth of oxytrees in the second year was 209.7 cm, and in the third year, 246.8 cm. The growth of oxytrees fertilised with pellets made from the digestate of an agricultural biogas plant was 13% higher than that of trees growing on the control strip.
Vegetable oil plant wastewater treatment by bacterial isolates: A study in the city of Hila, Iraq
Authors: Salim Hanan Kareem , Al-Ahmed Suad Ghali Kadhim
Published: November 2023

The present study was to reflect the use of some bacteria in the treatment and removal of pollutants in three selected wastewater sites, including a vegetable oil plant (viz. Al-Etihad Food Industries), the main wastewater treatment station in the city of Hila, and Al-Hila River water from October 2019 to January 2020. The bacterial isolates identified in these three sites were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Enterobacteria cloacae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Thalasobacillus devorans, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Bacillus subtilis. The molecular study of the bacterial isolates involved the detection of bacterial genera using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results showed that water had a variable nature, depending on the substances in it. It recorded varying chemical and physical property values, ranging between 6.36 and 7.82 for pH and from 2500 to 7100 mg∙dm–3 for total alkalinity. Additional values were 713–2051 μS∙cm–1 for electrical conductivity (EC), 5.90–9.80 mg∙dm–3 for chemical oxygen demand (COD), and 480–960 mg∙dm–3 for total hardness. The given values were also 0.20–0.65 μg∙dm–3, 0.03-0.23 μg∙dm–3, and 0–107 mg∙dm–3 for nitrite (NO2), phosphate (PO4) oils, respectively.
A study of the climate and human impact on the future survival of the Al-Sannya marsh in Iraq
Authors: Hatem Amal Jabbar , Al-Jasim Ali Adnan N. , Abduljabbar Hameed Majeed
Published: November 2023

The marshes are the most abundant water sources and ecological rich communities. They have a significant impact on the ecological and economic well-being of the communities surrounding them. However, climatic changes directly impact these bodies of water, especially those marshes which depend on rainwater and flooding for their survival. The Al-Sannya marsh is used as the example of marshes in Southern Iraq for this study between 1987–2017. The research takes place throughout the winter season due to the revival of marshes in southern Iraq at this time of year. The years 1987, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2007, 2014, 2017 are the focus of this study. Satellite imagery from the Landsat 5 (TM) and Landsat 8 (OLI) and the meteorological parameters affecting the marsh were acquired from NASA. The calculation of the areas of water bodies after classification using satellite imagery is done using the maximum likelihood method and comparing it with meteorological parameters. These results showed that these marshes are facing extinction due to the general change of climate and the interference of humans in utilising the drylands of the marsh for agricultural purposes. The vegetation area can be seen to have decreased from 51.15 km2 in 2000 to 8.77 km2 in 2017.
Differentiation in the value of drained land in view of variable conditions of its use
Authors: Rokochinskiy Anatoliy , Volk Pavlo , Frolenkova Nadia , Tykhenko Olha , Shalai Sergiy , Tykhenko Ruslan , Openko Ivan
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to a topical scientific problem in modern conditions – valuation of land in Ukraine. The imperfection of the existing approaches requires further research on the changing conditions of land use and their impact on land pricing. A methodology for determining the market value of reclaimed land based on a differentiated assessment of its productivity through crop yields is proposed, taking into account natural and climatic zones and other conditions of a particular region. The basis of the methodology is the application of long-term forecast and a set of forecast and simulation models, in particular the model of area climatic conditions and the model of water regime and water regulation technologies on reclaimed land. At that the crop yield model as a complex multiplicative type model takes into account all main factors influencing crop yield formation: weather, climatic and soil conditions, cultivation techniques, water regime of reclaimed land, etc. The proposed approaches were tested by the method of large – scale machine experiment using a land plot in the zone of Western Polissya of Ukraine as the example. The obtained results indicate that there is a differentiation in land value, which is a proportional derivative of the yield of cultivated crops depending on the conditions of their cultivation. The variation range of the studied indicators in relative form by the ratio of maximum and minimum values to the weighted average value is for cultivated crops – 393%, and for the above soils – 44.6%. Thus, within one object, the estimated value of land in view of available soils and cultivated crops varies from USD2456∙ha–1 to USD4005 ∙ ha–1, averaging USD3522 ∙ ha–1.
Phosphate and ammonia concentrations in waters from a meadow complex located on peat soils in various range of groundwater level
Authors: Sapek Andrzej , Pietrzak Stefan , Juszkowska Dominika , Urbaniak Marek
Published: November 2023

The aim of the study was to assess the P-PO4 and N-NH4 pollution of water in grasslands located on peat soils and to identify the impact of groundwater level on this pollution formation. The research was conducted in 2000– 2010 on grounds of ITP-PIB in Biebrza village (Poland). Within lowland fen a total of 18 monitoring points of groundwater and watercourses were established in 6 separate test stands. The subject of the research was water collected from drainage ditches/channels and groundwater, which was taken from wells installed in organic-soil layer and wells whose bottom was 15–20 cm below this layer. Water samples were collected several times a year, and in the case of groundwater, its level was also measured. It was found that: 1) due to concentration level of P-PO4 and N-NH4, about 46 and 39% of water samples from organic-soil layer and more than 40 and 37% of water samples from mineral- organic-soil layer respectively, were characterized by poor chemical status; 2) due to the exceeding of the limit values of P-PO4 and N-NH4 concentration, water samples from watercourses in over 30 and 27% respectively were not within 1st and 2nd class of surface water quality; 3) P-PO4 and N-NH4 concentrations in each water type were statistically significant and positively correlated with each other; 4) in organic-soil layer the groundwater level changing every 10 cm was a statistically significant factor differentiating the average P-PO4 concentration in groundwater associated with mineral-organic layer of peat soil and average N-NH4 concentration in each type of water.
Mathematical models use to yield prognosis of perennials on marginal land according to fertilisers doses
Authors: Hryniewicz Marek , Strzelczyk Maria , Helis Marek , Paszkiewicz-Jasińska Anna , Steinhoff-Wrzesniewska Aleksandra , Roman Kamil
Published: November 2023

Models describe our beliefs about how the world functions. In mathematical modelling, we translate those beliefs into the language of mathematics. Mathematical models can yield prognose on the base of applied fertiliser dose. In this work results of finding yield mathematical model according to fertiliser (nitrogen) dose for perennials (willowleaf sunflower Helianthus salicifolious, cup plant Silphium perfoliatum and Jerusalem artichoke Helianthus tuberosus) on marginal land are presented. Models were described as normalised square equations for dependence between yield and fertiliser doses. Experiments were conducted in lisymeters and vases for willowleaf sunflower and cup plant. For Jerusalem artichoke experiments were done in vases only. All experiments have been doing during two years (2018 and 2019) for different fertilisers doses (45, 90 and 135 kg N∙ha–1) in three repetitions. From simulations maximal yield could be achieved for following fertiliser doses – willowleaf sunflower 104 kg N∙ha–1, cup plant 85 kg N∙ha–1 and Jerusalem artichoke 126 kg N∙ha–1.
Energy-saving and low-emission livestock buildings in the concept of a smart farming
Authors: Bartkowiak Anna M.
Published: November 2023

Smart farming is about managing a farm using modern information and communication techniques in order to increase the efficiency and quality of plant and animal production and to optimise human labour inputs. It is an inseparable part of a sustainable agricultural economy, where energy-saving and low-emission solutions are of particular importance, e.g. in livestock construction. Animal buildings are one of the main building elements of a farm. The paper presents the use of modern solutions that may result in lower energy consumption, and thus lower operating costs of the building. They also reduce the consumption of natural resources and the emission of pollutants, and ensure animal welfare and safety of the operators’ work. Rational use of energy depends, among others, on from the used insulation materials for the construction of livestock buildings, technical equipment, i.e. lighting, heating, ventilation, as well as zootechnical devices. The profitability of livestock production can also be supported by the use of solar, wind, water and biomass energy. Photovoltaic cells, solar collectors, wind turbines, heat pumps and agricultural biogas plants are used for this purpose.
An experiment of energy dissipation on USBR IV stilling basin – Alternative in modification
Authors: Bantacut Alfiansyah Yulianur , Azmeri Azmeri , Jemi Faris Zahran , Ziana Ziana , Muslem Muslem
Published: November 2023

Previous researchers have been widely studied the equation for calculating the energy dissipation in USBR Type IV, applied in the stilling basin structure as an energy dissipator. However, inefficient energy dissipating basins are commonly found in the field due to the large discharge and high water head, potentially damaging the bottom of the energy dissipating basin and its downstream river. Therefore, an energy dissipator plan fulfilling the safe specifications for the flow behaviour that occurred is required. This study aimed to determine the variation of the energy dissipators and evaluate their effect on the hydraulic jump and energy dissipation. For this purpose, a physical model was undertaken on the USBR Type IV spillway system. The novelty of this experiment showed that combination and modification dissipation features, such as floor elevation, end threshold and riprap lengthening, could effectively dissipate the impact of energy downstream. The final series exhibited a significantly higher Lj/y1 ratio, a favourable condition due to the compaction of the hydraulic jump. There was also a significant increase in the downstream tailwater depth (y2) during the jump formation. Therefore, the final series energy dissipator was better in the stilling basin design for hydraulic jump stability and compaction. The increase in energy dissipation for the final series type was the highest (98.4%) in Q2 and the lowest (84.8%) in Q10 compared to the original series. Therefore, this type can better reduce the cavitation risk damaging to the structure and downstream of the river.
Analysis of groundwater quality in the lower Soummam Valley, North-East of Algeria
Authors: Ghodbane Messaoud , Benaabidate Lahcen , Boudoukha Abderrahmane , Gaagai Aissam , Adjissi Omar , Chaib Warda , Aouissi Hani Amir
Published: November 2023

Analysis of groundwater quality in the alluvial aquifer of the lower Soummam Valley, North-East of Algeria, was realised through the application of multivariate statistical methods: hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) in Q and R modes, factorial correspondence analysis (FCA), and principal component analysis (PCA), to hydrochemical data from 51 groundwater samples, collected from 17 boreholes during periods of June, September 2016 and March 2017. The objectives of this approach are to characterise the water quality and to know the factors which govern its evolution by processes controlling its chemical composition. The Piper diagram shows two hydrochemical facies: calcium chloride and sodium bicarbonate. Statistical techniques HCA, PCA, and FCA reveal two groups of waters: the first (EC, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl–, SO42– and NO3–) of evaporitic origin linked to the dissolution processes of limestone rocks, leaching of saliferous soils and anthropogenic processes, namely contamination wastewater and agricultural activity, as well marine intrusion; and the second group (Na+, K+, and HCO3–) of carbonated origin influenced by the dissolution of carbonate formations and the exchange of bases. The thermodynamic study has shown that all groundwater is undersaturated with respect to evaporitic minerals. On the other hand, it is supersaturated with respect to carbonate minerals, except for water from boreholes F9, F14, and F16, which possibly comes down to the lack of dissolution and arrival of these minerals. The results of this study clearly demonstrate the utility of multivariate statistical methods in the analysis of groundwater quality.
Application of seepage time curve in the assessment of flood embankment tightness
Authors: Sroka Zbigniew
Published: November 2023

Flood embankments have played an important role in flood protection systems for centuries. Tightness evaluation of water structures should result in determining whether floods may cause seepage incidents, consequently leading to their damage or even destruction. It is assumed that the time of water passage from the river to the protected area under steady-state conditions can be a good indicator of the embankment resistance to long-term water rise. The curve of water passage times shows the values obtained at different ordinates of the dammed water and can be regarded as a characteristic parameter of flood embankment tightness. Determination of the water passage time ( Tp) additionally requires finding the trajectory along which this time is the shortest possible. However, there is no need to analyse the unsteady filtration, which requires the determination of an initial condition and the course of time-dependent boundary conditions. Engineers in practice, often use the time Tpp which elapses from the beginning of flooding to the occurrence of seepage in the protected area. The relationship between the passage time ( Tp) and the seepage onset time ( Tpp) was analysed on a model example. Practical use of the curve of passage times is showed on the example of the reconstruction of the left-bank Warta embankment in the area of Konin.
A scenario analysis of climate change and adaptation measures to inform Dutch policy in The Netherlands
Authors: Querner Erik , den Besten Jan , van Veen Rinke , Jager Harry
Published: November 2023

The Drentsche Aa catchment in The Netherlands, which has nearly untouched natural river valleys, is a designated Natura 2000 area. Agriculture is practiced on the adjacent higher-lying ground. A set of measures was drafted to achieve climate-proof solutions in the short term by reducing the effects of a drier climate on nature and agriculture. These measures must have no adverse effects. In order to check this, the Hunze and Aa’s Water Board investigated the feasibility of using groundwater for sprinkler irrigation in parts of the catchment. In the study, the SIMulation of GROundwater and surface water levels (SIMGRO) hydrological model was used in order to model future scenarios with different water level strategies and climate scenarios. The modelling examined various measures in the nature and agricultural areas to optimise the hydrological situation for both land use functions. In addition, the effect on the nature areas of abstracting groundwater for irrigation was determined for buffer zones of different widths. The findings have indicated the policy direction to be taken by both the water board and the province, as well as offer them opportunities to deal with the requests for withdrawals in the near future by the means of future-proof general rules.
Design of water supply networks for water transfer to the urban area Case study: Balikpapan city
Authors: Huy Dinh T.N. , Dwijendra Ngakan K.A. , Poltarykhin Andrey , Suksatan Wanich , Nahi Nooraldeen S. , Mahmudiono Trias , Hai Nguyen T. , Kadhim Mustafa M. , Singh Krishanveer , Ahmed Alim A.A.
Published: November 2023

The growing population and the development of industries in all countries of the world have created a very important and complex issue for water supply to cities. Today, many parts of the world are facing the problem of water shortage and this problem cannot be easily solved. In addition to the proper use of water resources and preventing the loss of natural water, the establishment of regional water supply networks is effective in meeting the future needs of the people. A water distribution network (water supply network) is a set of interconnected pipelines used to transport and distribute water in a complex. In designing the water distribution network, factors such as the type of water distribution network, water pressure, water velocity, design flow, minimum pipe diameter, pipe material and many other factors should be considered. In this study, we have tried to design the water supply network of a part of Balikpapan city in Indonesia. The design method led to the determination of pressure values in the connection nodes, pipe diameters, flow rate and velocity in the pipes. All the existing criteria are considered in the design of the water supply network. Although this study has been implemented for a specific study area, it can be of great help to designers in designing the water supply network.
Oral Literature and Indigenous Knowledge: The Case of the San People from Southern Africa
Authors: Kozieł Patrycja
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this article is to establish a frame for arranging and classifying observations relating to the indigenous knowledge and oral traditions of the San people of southern Africa, mainly in Namibia. Oral literature of the San people serve, therefore, as a valuable source for re-constructing and reinforcing a positive collective identity of their history and cultural diversity. Several forms of expression such as folklore, poems, plants' names and personal narratives will be provided.
Mass transfer and element redistribution during chloritization of metamorphic biotite in a metapelite: insights from compositional mapping
Authors: Faehnrich Karol , Kośmińska Karolina , Majka Jarosław
Published: November 2023

Fluid-driven reactions are common in the upper crust, leading to mineral replacement and element redistribution on a kilometer to a micron scale. One common fluid-induced reaction is the chloritization of biotite. Chloritization can lead to the production of multiple phases, such as K-feldspar, titanite, and rutile, depending on local chemistry and fluid composition. Here, we compare different approaches to mass balance calculations using an altered garnet-bearing metapelite collected from Ny Friesland, Svalbard Archipelago, Norway. In the outcrop, amphibolite facies schists are cut by joints that acted as fluid pathways that led to the development of a narrow (~5 cm) alteration zone. Alteration involved the replacement of biotite by chlorite + K-feldspar ± rutile ± titanite. Mass balance calculations based on whole-rock composition and assuming immobile Zr indicate the addition of H2O, Si, Ti, Fe, or Mg and the removal of K or Ca. In contrast, mass balance calculated for the pseudomorphic replacement of Bt by Chl + Kfs ± Rt ± Ttn using X-Ray maps for three focused areas indicates the removal of Si or Ti rather than addition. Moles of product phase and elements gained or lost during this reaction varies between individual areas. This variation suggests that fluid heterogeneity and local chemistry governed the progression of the replacement reaction. All the product phases involved in the biotite breakdown are geochronometers and/or geothermometers, providing new opportunities for the petrochronology of fluid-induced reactions.
Collaboration Problem Solving (CPS) Skills in the Trend of Educational Research; Research from 2015 to 2022 on the Selected Journals
Authors: Rahayu Rina , Wiyanto Wiyanto , Ridho Saiful
Published: November 2023

There has been an increasing number of studies and researchers on Collaboration Problem Solving (CPS) skills from year to year. Therefore, the research on article reviews has become so crucial because it helps the researchers to set their orientation. This research discusses a review of Collaboration Problem Solving (CPS) skills. However, there are still many articles that have not explored Collaboration Problem Solving (CPS) in detail. That is why it is necessary to identify the development of the research on Collaboration Problem Solving (CPS) research. We analyze 51 published articles from 2015-2022 using an open-coding system. We use a search engine by entering one keyword or a combination of some existing keywords. The results indicate that there are still many things that previous researchers have not learned. The Use authors dominate the study with the main focus on understanding Collaboration Problem Solving (CPS). In terms of research participants, most of them are high school students. The research's findings indicate that there are still a lot of aspects of the collaboration problem solving (CPS) learning model in the educational world. that the researcher has not looked at. Despite an increase in relevant studies, there are still a very few of them.
Motivation and Academic Performance of Secondary Students in Science: A Correlational Study
Authors: Sabanal Germie Joy A. , Reputana Keziah Grace D. , Palwa Sharene S. , Labandero Catherine Lolinette H. , Alimbon Jemer A.
Published: November 2023

Motivation theories have suggested that motivation and academic performance are positively related. While many studies worldwide have explored this relationship, investigation in the Philippine educational setting remains scarce. Hence, this study described the levels of students’ motivation towards learning and academic performance in science and determined whether a significant relationship existed between these variables. Employing a correlational research design, this study surveyed 318 secondary students in a private, diocesan school in Davao del Norte, Philippines. Mean, standard deviation, and Pearson r were used to analyze the data. Results showed students’ motivation towards learning was generally high, and their academic performance was very satisfactory. Among the factors considered for motivation, only performance goal posted a moderate level, while other aspects, such as achievement goal, active learning strategies, learning environment stimulations, science learning value, and self-efficacy, registered high levels. Furthermore, this study revealed the students’ motivation towards learning and academic performance were positively and significantly correlated. While this study already found high motivation and very satisfactory academic performance among students, the researchers still recommend raising them to very high and outstanding levels, respectively. Further research on this topic with a more representative sample is highly recommended. Using other constructs to relate to any of the variables is also encouraged
The Effectiveness of Powtoon Animation Media on Student Learning Outcomes in Human Respiratory System Subject
Authors: Firman Reema Lee , Ningsih Kurnia , Panjaitan Ruqiah Ganda Putri
Published: November 2023

Powtoon is an online application that can be used as a learning medium. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of using powtoon animation media on student learning outcomes in the human respiratory system in Eight-grade Junior High School 3 Pontianak. The method used in this research is Quasi Experimental with Pre-test Post-test Control Group Design. The samples used were 2 classes, namely the experimental class with 31 students and the control class with 32 students, which were taken using the intact group technique.  The instrument used was a multiple choice test totaling 20 questions. Learning outcome data was analyzed using the independent sample t-test. The average post-test result for the experimental class was 76.56, which was higher than the control class, which was 69.53. The effect size calculation obtained is 0.70 which is included in the medium category and contributes 25.80% in learning, so it can be concluded that powtoon animation media influences student learning outcomes