bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scaling Issue in the Platform Area of Tengiz Field and Preventing Solutions
Authors: Myrzabayeva A. , Kydyrgazy A. , Sadyrbakiyev R. , Kalzhekov N. , Gaziz D. , Orazov B. , Williams D. , Lu H. , Yan C.
Published: November 2023

Even though most wells in the Tengiz Field produce virtually water free oil (less than 1% water cut), inorganic scales have been observed in many wells. Acid stimulation treatment programs for existing wells with deteriorated productivity include implementation of scale inhibitors, however this reactive approach might not always be the best way to proceed. The scope of the paper is to identify the main parameters which increase the probability of scale formation before a well is put on production and proactively treat such wells with scale inhibitors.

Previously Tengizchevroil (TCO) has conducted an extensive research project to reduce the need for frequent acid treatments while maintaining well deliverability at sustained rates. Compatibility and core flood tests have been performed to choose the best scale inhibitor, and an extensive surveillance program has been developed to track residual inhibitor concentration to timely plan subsequent stimulation treatments. This paper covers the next step of the study and includes analysis of the recent cases of scale formation including identification of similar properties between the cases to enable forecasting of the tendency of all new wells to encounter scale formation.

The study consists of three main steps – analysis of formation water and solid samples, analysis of open hole log data and analysis of production history for Tengiz and Korolev wells. The formation of precipitates is dependent on ion concentration in the water. Analysis of the water composition for each region and formation has been performed to identify which set of parameters increases the tendency to form scale. Solubility of inorganic salts is highly dependent on pressure and temperature changes taking place in the wellbore; therefore, the scale prediction study also includes these factors with the correlation to well region and reservoir properties each well penetrates. Weighted ranks for every parameter have been developed to rank a well after the drilling stage and make a proactive decision on whether scale inhibitor injection should be included in the primary acid stimulation treatment program, or if it should be considered only for reactive acid treatments in case of loss in well productivity.

This paper aims to share the best practices in scale inhibitor design, analysis of well parameters at the well completion stage and calculation of well tendency to scale formation. The decision tree for identification of well candidates for proactive scale treatments applicable for the Tengiz field presented in the paper can potentially be used in other carbonate fields.
Rejuvenating Profitability and Performance of Aging Gas Field through Multi-Pronged Strategy: System De-Bottlenecking, Well Optimization and Opex Management
Authors: Awase Azar , Memon Sikandar Ali , Zafar Jahangeer , Khan Zaeem Hasan , Noman Muhammad , Ejaz Muhtashim , Ali Mushtaque , Amjad Muhammad , Sirati Muhammad Attar
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a success case of optimizing a challenging mature gas field, producing at tail-end, with low reservoir pressure and increasing water gas ratio trend, complex surface network, and high operating cost. The situation demanded cost efficiency, novel strategies to optimize production and prudent decisions to safeguard reserves and sustain production.

S-Field was put on production in 2003 and peaked production of 460 MMscfd in 2007. In 2021, reservoir pressure dropped from 5400 to 300 psi, wells became critical and front-end compressors approached lower limits. Additionally, field was close to economic threshold, owing to late life conditions and high Opex. An integrated approach was taken to mitigate the challenges. A network modeling exercise with multiple sensitivities were performed to simulate the application of different deliq techniques (soap sticks, velocity string, CSI) and operating field with expanded compressor envelop. Subsequently, the strategy was implemented in phases to optimize the field.

Simulations performed for no further activity case with prevailing production technical limit suggested additional recoveries of only 4 Bscf for one year remaining. The simulated optimization cases predicted additional recoveries of around 20 Bscf with field life extension by 5 years. On top of production and reserves, the strategy envisaged significant improvement in field profitability by saving fuel gas (∼1 Bscf annual) and maintenance cost (2.5 $MM annual). The capital investment for the project was $10MM, with estimated project NPV of $17MM.

The project implemented in Oct 2021 with optimized compression scheme, smaller tubing size, velocity strings, and cost-effective foam injection. The actual field delivery was vigilantly monitored and till day additional volumes of 8 Bscf have been materialized and field is demonstrating very stable performance, closely matching the premise.

A novel aspect is that brown fields may be rejuvenated by expanding techno-commercial boundaries besides application of optimization techniques. At the stage where many operators would consider abandoning the fields, results driven strategy coupled with multidisciplinary inputs resulted in higher profits and additional recovery.
Determination of Environmental Conditions of Mesozoic Deposits of Kataton-Tengiz and Prorva Uplifts Based on the Study of Core Material
Authors: Pronin N. A.
Published: November 2023

To determine the environmental conditions of the Mesozoic deposits of the Karaton-Tengiz and Prorvinsky uplifts, the core samples derived from 22 wells in 8 fields were studied. The most useful information which allowed to draw a conclusion about environmental conditions were 19 wells from 5 fields (Fig.1). The core from the remaining 3 wells did not allow to obtain viable information, due to insufficient volume and lack of high-quality geophysical materials. Although the results obtained can be indirectly applied as a supplement and generalization of the information obtained. On the rest of the core, work was carried out on preparation, clarification of the true depth of occurrence, a lithological and sedimentological description was carried out with the construction of sedimentological columns, on the basis of which textural, structural features and bionomics were identified, enabling to fully interpret and determine the environmental conditions with the allocation of facies along the section. In addition, the results of earlier lithological studies of 2010-2020 were used to determine reservoir properties and their distribution, the results of geophysical studies, in particular logging curves GR and SP. Stratigraphic, age markers are obtained from the tabular data of previous projects, highlighted on the basis of correlation results. The studied core from wells reveals mainly sections of Jurassic and Cretaceous age.
Utilization of Digitalization Tools in Day-To-Day Operations at Tengiz
Authors: Rakhmetova D. , Batyrkhanova G. , Utebayeva D. , Su H.
Published: November 2023

Monitoring real time well performance is critical to not only maintain safe and reliable operations, but it is also crucial in meeting the yearly production targets. To track the current well rates Tengizchevroil (TCO) utilizes multiphase flowmeters (MPFM) which are installed on a group of wells (meter stations), usually consisting of 8-12 wells. However, there are some minor constraints in the current MPFM well testing process – wells can only be tested one-by-one with minimum 2-hour test durations, meaning that real time rates are only represented for one well only in the time of testing. When wells are not on test, TCO uses the theoretical rate (FTP rates or so called "flowing tubing pressure rates") determination process. This paper describes the application of digitalization tools in daily operations at Tengiz for production tracking and allocation process.

Prosper models are created and maintained for each well in TCO's operating well stock which are stored in Model Catalogue (DOF's model repository). Each month these Prosper models are updated and calibrated based on updated and reviewed well test data – engineers usually set new reservoir pressures or productivity index estimations to match the recent well test results. Revised models are later updated into the GAP integrated network model in Model Catalogue, and an automated workflow in DOF generates updated VLP/IPR tables with well rate trends as a function of varying wellhead pressure. The VLP/IPR tables are later uploaded into SCADA for integration with the real time monitoring tool, where based on current wellhead pressure the FTP rates are computed on a real-time basis for Operations to monitor.

The FTP update process also serves as a foundation for Field Production Allocation – a relationship of the cumulative daily production sourced from Plant intake gauges (actual Field production) to cumulative theoretical (FTP) Field rates. On average, TCO strives to keep the allocation factor in the range of 0.90-1.10 (+/- 10% error). This allocation process is done in Energy Components (EC).

The FTP and Allocation processes are foundational for short-term and long-term forecasting as the Well performance is used for day-to-day operations planning, maintaining, and ensuring enough production is feeding the Plants.

The end-to-end workflow is currently being streamlined to further automate where it makes sense; for example, leveraging DOF's capabilities to automate generating well test records from live real-time data, implementing a management by exception plug-in for the well test QA/QC, and semi-automating the Prosper model calibration process.
Real-Time Greenhouse Gas Emissions Visibility in Tengiz Production Operations
Authors: Tanzharikov Arman , Dairabayev Maxad , Kim Andrey , Sosa Jeremy , Bissembay Adilbek
Published: November 2023

Understanding the sources of GHG emissions and their visibility within the energy industry is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies and achieving sustainability goals. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the data visibility of GHG emission sources in oil and gas production operations.

The study encompasses an extensive review of literature, industry reports, and technological frameworks to identify the primary sources of GHG emissions in oil and gas production. These sources include flaring, venting, fugitive emissions, combustion processes, etc. Each source is examined regarding its potential emissions, monitoring techniques, and data visibility. Moreover, highlights the challenges faced by companies in accurately measuring, monitoring, and reporting GHG emissions, such as technological limitations, data collection complexities, and the lack of standardized reporting frameworks.

In this paper, the author investigates the existing requirements and voluntary initiatives to improve data visibility and transparency. Furthermore, the paper presents emerging technologies and best practices to enhance GHG emissions data visibility. It discusses implementing advanced monitoring systems and emphasizes the importance of digitalization and data analytics in capturing, analyzing, and visualizing GHG emissions data for better decision-making and performance tracking. The findings of this paper shed light on the current best practices, potential limitations, and opportunities regarding GHG emissions data visibility in oil and gas production operations. The analysis underscores the need for stronger collaboration between industry stakeholders to establish consistent reporting frameworks and standards. It also emphasizes the importance of technological innovation and data-driven approaches to enable more efficient emissions monitoring and reduction strategies.

Overall, this paper serves as a comprehensive overview of GHG emission sources data visibility in oil and gas production operations. It provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by the industry, highlights potential solutions, and emphasizes the importance of enhanced data visibility for achieving sustainability goals in the context of climate change.
Creeping Claystone Formation in Absheron Field, Azerbaijan: Description, Issues and Mitigations for Future Wells
Authors: Kamalov K. , Mirzayev R. , Kilic A.
Published: November 2023

In Absheron appraisal well, a short section (16½″ × 20″) was dedicated to isolate the "Creeping Claystone" troublemaking interval.

The creeping shales correspond to a 6 meters thick shale layer compressed between two competent layers of anhydrite. This layer is saturated with water as it is impossible for the fluid to be expelled due to the enclosing anhydrite. The behavior of the shale layer is not considered as over pressured but only as a rheological effect.

Only 250 meters were drilled in 16½″ × 20″ section that included "Creeping Claystone" interval. The section was drilled in steps due to previous experienced borehole instabilities. Consequently, a 16½″ pilot hole was first planned to be drilled to TD (Total Depth), then being enlarged to 20″ size. Furthermore, the section was planned to be drilled with 1.67sg NABM (Non Aqueous Based Mud) mud, nevertheless, due to encountered problems with borehole stability, the mud weight was increased by steps up to 1.73sg.

Lots of problems were encountered while drilling, such as:

several mud overflows from header box in the shaker room after experiencing pack-offs; two SonicScope failures (tool could not withstand such borehole conditions); huge volume (3964.5 t) of cavings, cuttings and mud were recovered, filling 849 skips (4.3 t/skip average).

Eventually, 16″ liner was set and cemented at well section TD.
Revolutionizing Annulus Pressure Monitoring for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency in E&P Industry
Authors: Al Hinaai K. , Batrani S. H. , Al Saidi M. , Al Tobi A.
Published: November 2023

Manual annulus pressure monitoring (APM) has long been recognized as a high-risk activity, exposing personnel on-site to considerable dangers. While APM remains crucial for detecting sub-surface failures in wells, it is imperative to explore alternative methods that mitigate associated risks. This paper delves into the challenges of traditional APM and presents an advanced solution that addresses these concerns.

Petroleum Development Oman LLC (PDO) has introduced a systematic monitoring approach for APM across various well types. PDO has recently incorporated state-of-the-art technology, enabling real-time APM monitoring in specific wells. This technology allows direct visualization of pressure data from the wellsite, improving safety measures and data availability. Initially targeting high-risk wells with elevated pressure levels, advanced APM technology minimizes associated HSE concerns through frequent monitoring. By adopting this technology, PDO prioritizes on-site personnel safety and reduces the necessity for human interventions. Remote monitoring has further decreased the need for intervention, leading to enhanced HSE outcomes.

The technology employed by PDO enables real-time acquisition of APM data, leading to everyday readings and a comprehensive dataset. Despite the accelerated data acquisition rate, the quality of the collected data remains uncompromised. This has instilled confidence in PDO's ability to perform accurate risk assessments for each well, fostering a better understanding of their conditions and potential incidents. Apart from the evident advantages in HSE, the implementation of advanced APM technology has yielded substantial operational and cost benefits for PDO. By eliminating the need for frequent manual checks, the associated costs of deploying operators for APM have been significantly reduced. This streamlined approach allows PDO to confidently manage well conditions, promptly mitigating any probable incidents.

The introduction of advanced APM technology has revolutionized annulus pressure monitoring in petroleum development. Through real-time monitoring and data visualization, PDO has ensured enhanced safety measures, improved risk assessment capabilities, and optimized operational efficiency. This groundbreaking solution has transformed traditional APM practices, providing a pathway to a safer and more cost-effective future for the industry.
Advancements in Applications of Machine Learning for Formation Damage Predictions
Authors: Abdulmutalibov T. E. , Shmoncheva Y. Y. , Jabbarova G. V.
Published: November 2023

Reservoir damage is a critical a major concern within the oil and gas sector that has the potential to have a significant impact reduce reservoir productivity. Traditional methods of repairing formation damage are frequently requiring a substantial amount of manual effort and consuming a considerable amount of time. This study delves into the utilization of machine learning methods as a promising solution for predicting, mitigating, and managing reservoir damage. The study begins with a discussion of the various elements that lead to the occurrence of formation damage, including rock-fluid interactions, drilling operations, and production processes. It then highlights the limitations of traditional methods and emphasizes the need for data-driven approaches. Machine learning models such as support vector machines, regression analysis, and neural networks are introduced as tools for analyzing large data sets derived from reservoir modeling, wellbore data, and production history. These models identify key parameters and patterns associated with formation damage, which helps predict potential damage. Additionally, this research paper investigates the application of machine learning for optimizing drilling and completion strategies with the aim of reducing the likelihood of formation damage. It addresses the incorporation of real-time data monitoring and predictive analytics to enhance reservoir management methodologies.

The paper presents case studies and practical implementations of machine learning aimed at mitigating formation damage. These examples illustrate the potential for enhancing reservoir performance, cutting operational expenses, and boosting hydrocarbon production. It also outlines challenges and future directions for research in this area, highlighting the importance of continued innovation in machine learning and data mining methods to promote the sustainable growth of the oil and gas sector.

In conclusion, the application of machine learning for formation damage management represents a transformative approach to address a critical challenge in the oil and gas sector. This research contributes to the development of knowledge and practical implementation of machine learning methods to optimize reservoir performance while minimizing the effects of reservoir damage.
Improved Geobody Characterization in the Supergiant Kashagan Carbonate Reservoir Through the Use of Diffraction Imaging
Authors: Yerzhanov B. , Schreuder S. , Haiyan Z. , Mingsheng L. , Hechen H. , Chengzhen D.
Published: November 2023

Kashagan is a Devonian-Carboniferous age isolated carbonate buildup located in the Pre-Caspian Basin of Kazakhstan. Geomorphologically the field is divided into two regions: platform and rim. The platform is characterized by grainstones with good matrix porosity and wells in this location tend to be good producers. In contrast, the rim consists mainly of boundstones with very poor matrix porosities and wells drilled in these regions target non-matrix features, such as karsts and fractures.

Identification of these non-matrix features, collectively known as geobodies, play an important role in the in-place resource volumes, permeability architecture, and overall reservoir performance of the supergiant offshore Kashagan oil field. Many of the rim wells that successfully target a geobody result in the highest production rates within the entire field. Thus, the accurate and precise imaging of geobodies has always been essential task for the operator of the field.

Many different seismic attributes and processing techniques have been attempted in order to aid in the identification of geobodies. This paper discusses the use of diffraction imaging and the analysis of the resulting data volumes to improve the imaging and confidence in the location of non-matrix features within the Kashagan carbonate reservoir.
Application of Oil Fingerprinting and Biomarker Analysis for Reservoir Compartmentalization Studies and Genetic Typing of Oils from North Ustuyrt Oil and Gas Region
Authors: Seitkhaziyev Y. Sh. , Sarsenbekov N. D. , Uteyev R. N.
Published: November 2023

The North Ustyurt Oil and Gas Region (OGR) in terms of territory is located within the borders of two countries. The majority of it is situated within the territory of Western Kazakhstan, while a smaller part (to the east) is in Western Uzbekistan. Geographically, the North Ustyurt OGR is bounded to the north by the Caspian Lowland, to the east by the Aral Sea, and to the west by the North-Buzashin Oil and Gas Zone. From a tectonic perspective, its northern-northwestern boundary is marked by the North Ustyurt fault system, separating the North Ustyurt from the Caspian Depression with Upper Paleozoic complexes. The southern-southwestern boundary is formed by the Central Ustyurt dislocations and the Tokubay-Tuakyr thrust-and-fold system, while the eastern boundary is defined by the Aral-Kyzylkum uplift zone.

In comparison to neighboring oil and gas regions, the hydrocarbon potential of the North Ustyurt Oil and Gas Region (OGR) is indeed less pronounced, but recent discoveries in the Tepke area suggest that it is not fully explored. In the Kazakhstani part of the region, approximately 10 fields have been found in the Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Paleogene fields, while in the Karakalpakstan part of Uzbekistan, there are 17 fields in Mesozoic and Paleozoic deposits. For this region, structural and tectonic control over hydrocarbon presence is evident. All identified fields are associated with steps, uplift zones, and monoclines located on the periphery of major flexure systems. Additionally, there are broad patterns in the distribution of fields based on the phase state of hydrocarbons, albeit at a relatively coarse scale: western areas are characterized by oil, north-eastern areas contain dry methane gas, and eastern-southeastern areas, bordering Uzbekistan, have gas condensate fields.

The volumetric distribution of oil and gas fields clearly corresponds to three hypsometrically uplifted segments of flexures: the Arystanov Step, Akkulka Fold, and Shagyrly-Shomyshtinsky Prominence (Figure 1). It is important to note that all of these segments are bounded by significant faults, which does not exclude the possibility of hydrocarbon recharge from deep hydrocarbon generation centers [1].
Geosteering a Well Along the Reservoir Top with Non-Azimuthal Resistivity Measurements, Case Study from Kazakhstan
Authors: Makhambetov A. , Fedorov A. F. , Belousova N. A. , Nemushchenko D. A. , Skorokhodov D. V. , Mukanov Y. M. , Chzhen I. V. , Kulbayev A. , Kurmanbayev Y. Z. , Zaripov N. S. , Zhumabayev A. , Kazybay D. , Kabiyev R.
Published: November 2023

Horizontal drilling in many cases allows for a reduction of the number of wells required to develop a field. Compared to vertical wells, each horizontal well has a larger drainage area. At the same time, planned production can be achieved with a lower drawdown, which extends the life of a well and improves recovery factor and cumulative production. Reduction of the number of wells reduces environmental footprint. Hence, field development with horizontal wells has multiple advantages as compared to vertical drilling. However, horizontal drilling is more complex from technical perspective and requires thorough feasibility studies and utilization of certain methods and technologies to reduce risks related to geology and drilling and improve chances of success, achieve planned production rate withing the anticipated budget and timeframe and, ultimately, planned return on investment.

Despite the advantages, horizontal drilling is not broadly used in Kazakhstan and in general in the Caspian region although in many cases it may be feasible. One of the reasons could be lack of awareness of the methods and technologies utilized in horizontal drilling.

Geosteering is one of the methods required in horizontal drilling. It is the process of adjusting the borehole trajectory while drilling based on interpretation of logging-while-drilling data in order to achieve geological objectives.
Development of Novel Thermoactive Polymer Compositions for Deep Fluid Diversion Purposes
Authors: Veliyev E. F. , Aliyev A. A. , Poladova G. Sh.
Published: November 2023

Oil and gas production is a vital component of the global economy, serving as the primary source of hydrocarbons, which are not only essential for various products but also as the primary energy source. Global energy consumption, as reported by the International Energy Agency (IEA), has been steadily increasing due to population growth and improved living standards, with a 2.9% increase in 2019, surpassing the 1.9% average annual growth rate of the previous decade [1].

Despite the growing interest in renewable energy resources, they currently represent a small portion of the global energy mix. In 2020, fossil fuels still dominated electricity production in the United States, accounting for approximately 80%, while renewables contributed around 20% [2, 3]. Additionally, renewable energy sources face challenges such as environmental dependence, high initial costs, and environmental consequences related to their production.

In light of these circumstances, hydrocarbon production remains crucial to meet the rising energy demand, achieved through the exploration of new reservoirs or enhancing the productivity of existing ones. Exploring new reservoirs is resource-intensive and often located at greater depths, necessitating innovative technologies [4-5].
Processing OBS Data by Multidimensional Deconvolution in the Presence of a Steeply Sloping Seabed: A Caspian Sea Case History
Authors: Saragoussi E. , Miasnikova G. , Boiero D. , Ashby A. , Bagaini C.
Published: November 2023

Processing of ocean-bottom seismic (OBS) data by deconvolution of up-down separated wavefields simplifies and improves 3D and 4D seismic processing workflows because it attenuates surface-related multiples, compensates for spatio-temporal variations of the water velocity, and performs source designature and deghosting. The assumptions of a 1D earth's interior, which are inherent in an implementation of the technology known as up/down deconvolution (UDD), limit its potential.

We show a successful application of multidimensional deconvolution (MDD), which is a generalization of UDD in complex media, to an OBS dataset acquired in the Caspian Sea that shows a rugose seabed varying from approximately 150 to 450 m with steep slopes. Moreover, the overburden has geological features such as shallow gas, mud volcanoes and crestal faulting and requires a technology that does not make simplifying assumptions.
The impact of phage treatment on bacterial community structure is minor compared to antibiotics
Authors: Gundersen Madeleine S. , Fiedler Alexander W. , Bakke Ingrid , Vadstein Olav
Published: November 2023

Background: Phage treatment is suggested as an alternative to antibiotics; however, there is limited knowledge of how phage treatment impacts resident bacterial community structure. When phages induce bacterial lysis, resources become available to the resident community. Therefore, the density of the target bacterium is essential to consider when investigating the effect of phage treatment. This has never been studied. Thus, we invaded microcosms containing a lake-derived community with Flavobacterium columnare strain Fc7 at no, low or high densities, and treated them with either the bacteriophage FCL-2, the antibiotic Penicillin or kept them untreated (3x3 factorial design). The communities were sampled over the course of one week, and bacterial community composition and density were examined by 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing and flow cytometry.
Results: We show that phage treatment had minor impacts on the resident community when the host F. columnare Fc7 of the phage was present, as it caused no significant differences in bacterial density α- and β-diversity, successional patterns, and community assembly. However, a significant change was observed in community composition when the phage host was absent, mainly driven by a substantial increase in Aquirufa. In contrast, antibiotics induced significant changes in all community characteristics investigated. The most crucial finding was a bloom of γ-proteobacteria and a shift from selection to ecological drift dominating community assembly.
Conclusions:
This study investigated whether the amount of a bacterial host impacted the effect of phage treatment on community structure. We conclude that phage treatment did not significantly affect the diversity or composition of the bacterial communities when the phage host was present, but introduced changes when the host was absent. In contrast, antibiotic treatment was highly disturbing to community structure. Moreover, higher amounts of the bacterial host of the phage increased the contribution of stochastic community assembly and resulted in a feast-famine like response in bacterial density in all treatment groups. This finding emphasises that the invader density used in bacterial invasion studies impacts the experimental reproducibility. Overall, this study supports that phage treatment is substantially less disturbing to bacterial communities than antibiotic treatments.
Saudi Arabia's Post-Oil Economic Prospects: Economic diversification, entrepreneurship and women's empowerment
Authors: Awwad Bahaa Subhi Abdel Latif , Hamdan Allam Mohamed Mousa
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to provide a development model in Saudi Arabia that contributes to getting out of the current oil crisis, the current study provides a model that depends on exploiting Saudi Arabia's capabilities through four basic pillars: The trend towards economic diversification, entrepreneurship, and women's economic empowerment are all these changes in light of public sector reform and governance. The proposed study model was theoretically tested through a comprehensive review of the relevant economic and social literature, and then the study applied this model in Saudi Arabia, using a time series that extends since (2001-2020) and constitutes a total of (20) years. Based on econometric methods in collecting and analyzing data and ensuring its validity, and building representative models of the relationship between the study model with its four pillars and economic growth: The study found a number of results indicating a positive impact of economic diversification, entrepreneurship, and public corporate governance on the economic growth of Saudi Arabia, with mixed results on the impact of women's empowerment on economic growth, and based on those results, a set of recommendations were built related to getting out of the oil crisis, encouraging economic diversification and entrepreneurship, and women's economic empowerment.
Macroinvertebrate communities in Detroit River coastal wetlands: association to water quality status and tributary inputs.
Authors: Robson Jessica , Drouillard Kenneth G
Published: November 2023

The Detroit River is a Great Lakes Area of Concern with five monitored wetlands in the Canadian jurisdiction. Habitat assessments have indicated degraded conditions within two adjoining tributaries, Turkey Creek and River Canard. At these tributary junctions, submerged macrophyte beds extend into the channel where tributary inflow may be altering benthic macroinvertebrate communities. We first examine inter-wetland differences for resemblance to water quality status. We had found by NMDS and PERMANOVA wetland communities had not resembled water quality index scores. Second, we perform an intra-wetland comparison for Turkey Creek and River Canard to analyze for differences along tributary inputs. Wetland communities were delineated by position into upstream, downstream, and tributary plume strata and analyzed by NMDS and PERMANOVA. Additionally, to detect potentially impaired sample sites along tributaries, a multivariate reference condition approach was applied with a habitat standardization to contrast River Canard and Turkey Creek to reference wetlands. At neither River Canard nor Turkey Creek we observed significant tributary influence on river communities but had found the Turkey Creek tributary communities significantly differed from the channel communities. Multiple lines of evidence suggest community impairment in Turkey Creek likely from upstream waters rather than tributary inputs. This study highlights that a-priori site selection by wadable depths and vegetation types is limited in detecting impairment in coastal wetlands who do not conform to these profiles.
Mechanical properties of continuous fiber composite of Titanium nitride – CNT by molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Azizisough S.M. , Zanoosi Ali Akbar Pasha , Mohammadi Y.
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to strengthen the mechanical properties of titanium nitride (TiN). Molecular dynamics simulations showed that the Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio of TiN increased with increasing CNT volume fraction. This suggests that TiN@CNT composites can have superior mechanical properties to pure TiN. The effects of strain rate and temperature on the mechanical properties of TiN@CNT composites were also investigated. Increasing the strain rate had no effect on Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, or failure stress, but it did reduce the failure strain. Increasing the temperature, on the other hand, decreased Young's modulus and increased Poisson's ratio. These findings suggest that TiN@CNT composites have the potential to be used in a variety of applications where high mechanical strength is required. The ability to tailor the mechanical properties of TiN@CNT composites by varying the CNT volume fraction, strain rate, and temperature makes them a versatile and promising material.
The "Trinity" comprehensively regulates the tumor microenvironment of lipid-coated CaCO3@CuO2-watermelon nanoparticles induces "cuproptosis" in HCC
Authors: Li Weijie , Liu Yong , Wang Han , Li Meijing , Li Bin , Wang Fei , Xu Yong , Lai Yongji , Yang Tan
Published: November 2023

Background
Tumor cell death induced by "cuproptosis" is a novel form of tumor death that differs from apoptosis induced by chemotherapy. It is expected to emerge as a new approach for cancer treatment. In this study, our focus was on exploiting the characteristic of "cuproptosis" which necessitates increased aerobic respiration to induce tumor cell death.
Methods
To achieve this, we developed a novel drug delivery system using a CaCO3@CuO2 lipid coating (CaCO3@CuO2@L). This system aimed to comprehensively modulate the tumor microenvironment and trigger "cuproptosis" in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through the interaction between copper ions and peroxides.
Results
Experimental results revealed that the CaCO3@CuO2@L exhibited a distinct watermelon shape, with CuO2 evenly distributed within the CaCO3 nanoparticles. The nanoparticles had an average size of approximately 191 nm. In vitro studies demonstrated that the nanoparticles released CuO2 in a slightly acidic environment while simultaneously elevating pH levels, reducing glutathione (GSH), and increasing oxygen production. Within liver cancer cells, the CaCO3@CuO2@L effectively regulated the acidity, GSH levels, and oxygen-depleted microenvironment through the "trinity" mechanism, ultimately inducing "cuproptosis" in HCC. Furthermore, in mouse models with transplanted tumors and orthotopic liver cancer tumors, the CaCO3@CuO2@L significantly suppressed tumor growth.
Conclusions
By triggering "cuproptosis" in HCC, this study offers valuable insights for developing a comprehensive treatment approach for HCC. Ultimately, this research may pave the way for the clinical implementation of the drug delivery system based on "cuproptosis" in liver cancer treatment.
Analyzing the threshold effect of environmental regulation and logistics industry agglomeration on road green logistics efficiency: A case study in China
Authors: yao hua , Yu Xinlian , Mao Haijun , Zhang Shunfeng , Wang Dongfang , Yang Lei
Published: November 2023

Road green logistics play a crucial role in promoting a nation’s sustainable economic growth. Environmental regulation (ER) is considered as a major activity to stimulate the development of green logistics. Meanwhile, logistics industry agglomeration (LIA) could enhance the logistics efficiency with reasonable agglomeration. However, the contradiction between them is also becoming important, and the rapid development of logistics has brought huge pressure on the environment. Therefore, the complicated relationship between ER, LIA and road green logistics efficiency(RGLE) needs to be further clarified. Using panel data between 2008 and 2020 in China's 30 provinces, this study measures the RGLE with Super-SBM model. The complex relationships between ER, LIA, and RGLE are then examined with panel regression models. Empirical results indicate that the average RGLE demonstrates a trend of initially declining and then rising, with notable spatial variations. Interestingly, econometric findings confirm that ER does not directly improve RGLE but effectively enhances it through its moderation with LIA. Furthermore, the impact of ER on RGLE exhibits a "U-shaped" relationship under different agglomeration threshold values in the logistics industry. Consequently, this study suggests optimizing LIA and strengthening regional linkage to improve RGLE.
Effect of Oxidation Treatment and UV Irradiation of Titanium Surface on Yeast Adhesion
Authors: Umetsu Masaki , Sekiai Ryota , Chien Mei-Fang , Yokoyama Shun , Kamitakahara Masanobu
Published: November 2023

Support materials capable of immobilizing microorganisms, such as yeast, are important for developing bioreactors for producing useful substances and wastewater treatment. However, the intricacies of initial microorganism adhesion remain unclear owing to the complex interactions among physicochemical properties of the material and microbial cell surfaces. Therefore, this study was undertaken to elucidate the effects of changes in the physicochemical properties of oxidized titanium surfaces on yeast adhesion. Surface-oxidized titanium was selected as a biocompatible material anticipated to serve as a support material for yeast. The titanium surface properties were controlled through oxidation and UV irradiation treatments, and their effects on yeast adhesion were evaluated. The application of heat treatment or anodic oxidation to polished titanium led to a significant increase in the number of adherent yeast, particularly on the anodic-oxidized titanium surface. This observation suggests that anodic oxidation is the preferred method for enhancing yeast adhesion. Despite the known significance of surface hydrophilicity in microbial adhesion, no correlation was observed between hydrophilicity and yeast adhesion in this study. UV irradiation increased the surface free energy of oxidized titanium; however, the surface free energy of polished, heat-treated titanium when immersed in yeast extract-peptone-dextrose medium decreased owing to the adsorption of medium components. In contrast, anodic-oxidized titanium maintained its hydrophilicity and surface free energy after immersion, although it adsorbed more culture medium components than the other titanium samples. Surface characterization of the adsorption layer may provide a more comprehensive understanding of microbial adherence.
Activation of peroxydisulfate via Bismuth-containing CoFe Layered double hydroxide for effective degradation of aniline
Authors: Li Yutong , Jin Xinglong , Qi Buying
Published: November 2023

The sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) is a promising method for the degradation of pollutants, with the lack of appropriate activation catalysts limiting its application in wastewater treatment. The 1.5BiCoFe LDH was synthesized by coprecipitation method to enhance the activation efficiency of CoFe LDH for peroxydisulfate (PDS), characterized as a complex of Bi2O2CO3 and CoFe LDH. The Bi2O2CO3 imparts high electron transport characteristics, thereby enhancing the activation efficiency of PDS. Comparative analysis with pure CoFe LDH reveals a remarkable increase in reaction rate by approximately 14.66 times. Furthermore, this work proposes an electron transport catalytic mechanism in the reaction system that offers new insights into strengthening PDS activation.
Comparative Analysis of Laparoscopic Appendiceal Stump Closure Techniques in South Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Anwar Shoaib , Akhtar Naveed , Javed Sadia , Hassan Syed Shams ul , Javaid Aamir , Bandesha Faisal Naeem
Published: November 2023

Background: The study aimed to compare the efficacy of metallic endo-clips and extracorporeal knotting techniques for closing the appendiceal stump in laparoscopic appendectomy. The primary objectives were to assess the impact on surgery duration, hospital stay, and postoperative complications, focusing on identifying the potential benefits of using metallic endo-clips.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective comparative study was conducted at Nishtar Medical University, Multan. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A received metallic endo-clips, while Group B underwent extracorporeal knotting. Data were collected from surgical notes and discharge forms, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.
Results: Among the 70 patients, 62.9% were male, and 37.1% were female. The male-to-female ratio was 2:1. Most patients (81.4%) were aged up to 35 years, with 68.6% from urban areas. Using metallic endo-clips, Group A had a significantly shorter mean surgery duration (28.89 minutes) than Group B (34.23 minutes). Hospital stay duration showed no significant difference between the two groups. Only 4.3% of patients experienced complications, with a slightly higher incidence in Group B (66.7%).
Conclusions: The study suggests that using metallic endo-clips for laparoscopic appendiceal stump closure offers potential benefits, including shorter surgery duration and lower rates of complications. This technique may enhance surgical efficiency and reduce the risk of prolonged anesthesia and surgery. Although this study had some limitations, it highlights the promise of metallic endo-clips as a viable alternative for appendiceal stump closure in laparoscopic appendectomy.
Psychometric properties of Persian Version of Advance Care Planning Questionnaire among Older Adults in Iran
Authors: Golmohammadi Mobina , Barasteh Salman , Mollahadi Mohsen , ali Shadi baba , Ebadi Abbas
Published: November 2023

Introduction: advanced age is associated with life-threatening conditions at the end of life. Many of these patients at the end of their lives cannot make decisions because of the variable status of the level of consciousness. When these individuals are able to make decisions and identify their care priorities, in a process called advanced care planning, they plan about their preferences for end-of-life care. Accordingly, a local or native instrument is required for investigating ACP of the elderly. This study was performed to determine the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the advanced care planning questionnaire of the elderly referring to healthcare centers in Tehran city.
Method: this methodological study was performed in five hospitals of Tehran in 2021-2022. A total of 390 eligible elderlies were included. After receiving the permission from the instrument developer, double back translation, face validity was done using face-to-face interview with 10 elderlies, while the qualitative content validity was performed through surveying 10 experts in palliative care. The construct validity was performed using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency was captured using Cronbach alpha coefficient, and stability was performed using test-retest method to evaluate the reliability of the instrument.
Results: the face validity of the instrument was performed with minor changes in the wording of item 12. The content validity ratio for all of the items was above 0.79, and no item was eliminated. In the explorative factor analysis with 230 entities, four factors of “feelings regarding advance care planning”, "justifications for advance care planning”, “justifications for not having advance care planning: fate and religion”, and “justifications for not having advance care planning: avoid thinking about death” were extracted. CFA with 160 elder patient showed that the four-factor model extracted from EFA has a good fit of the data (RMSEA: 0.04; NFI: 0.97 CFI: .99; IFI: .99; RFI: .96; AGFI: .87; GFI 0/90; standardized RMR: 0.02). To assess internal consistency Cronbach alpha coefficient for the questionnaire was confirmed within the range of 0.72-0.94, while stability with intra-cluster correlation coefficient was confirmed within the range of 0.85-0.96.
Conclusion: the results indicated that the Persian version of the advance care planning questionnaire has desirable psychometric properties for measuring the advanced care planning of the elderly. In addition, healthcare providers can employ this questionnaire in healthcare systems as well as research in Iran.
Reviving Cultural Heritage: Advancements in Pose Recognition and 3D Model Reconstruction for Indian Classical Dance Using AI and Augmented Reality Technologies
Authors: Jayanthi J , Maheswari P. Uma
Published: November 2023

This paper delves into the specialized domain of human action recognition, focusing on the Identification of Indian classical dance poses, specifically Bharatanatyam. Within the dance context, a "Karana" embodies a synchronized and harmonious movement encompassing body, hands, and feet, as defined by the Natyashastra. The essence of Karana lies in the amalgamation of nritta hasta (hand movements), sthaana (body postures), and chaari (leg movements). Although numerous, Natyashastra codifies 108 karanas, showcased in the intricate stone carvings adorning the Nataraj temples of Chidambaram, where Lord Shiva's association with these movements is depicted. Automating pose identification in Bharatanatyam poses challenges due to the vast array of variations, encompassing hand and body postures, mudras (hand gestures), facial expressions, and head gestures. To simplify this intricate task, this research employs image processing and automation techniques. The proposed methodology comprises four stages: acquisition and pre-processing of images involving skeletonization and Data Augmentation techniques, feature extraction from images, classification of dance poses using a deep learning network-based convolution neural network model (InceptionResNetV2), and visualization of 3D models through mesh creation from point clouds. The use of advanced technologies, such as the MediaPipe library for body key point detection and deep learning networks, streamlines the identification process. Data augmentation, a pivotal step, expands small datasets, enhancing the model's accuracy. The convolution neural network model showcased its effectiveness in accurately recognizing intricate dance movements, paving the way for streamlined analysis and interpretation. This innovative approach not only simplifies the identification of Bharatanatyam poses but also sets a precedent for enhancing accessibility and efficiency for practitioners and researchers in the Indian classical dance.