bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis of environmental footprints: conventional versus high-strength concrete in construction
Authors: Rajagopal M.R. , Pamu Yashwanth , Anusha Indrakanti 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This paper presents a comparative analysis of the environmental footprints associated with conventional and high-strength concrete in the construction industry. As sustainability becomes increasingly critical in construction practices, understanding the environmental impacts of various concrete types is essential. The study employs a comprehensive methodology to assess key environmental factors, including carbon footprint, energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation, for both conventional and high-strength concrete. Data collection and analysis reveal significant differences between the two concrete types in terms of their environmental impacts. Findings indicate that while high-strength concrete offers enhanced structural performance, it tends to have higher environmental costs compared to conventional concrete. The paper discusses the implications of these findings for sustainable construction practices and emphasizes the importance of informed material selection decisions in reducing the environmental footprint of construction projects.
Exploring the role of green intrinsic motivation in predicting ecological automobile use: the mediating role of green self-efficacy within the framework of theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Singh Suyesha , Nambiar Vaishnavi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The increasing rate of climate change and the exhaustion of natural resources have caused sustainability to be of paramount importance across the globe. The transportation industry is one of the most important sectors that impacts the environment through greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants produced by traditional vehicles. In response to these environmental problems, there has been an increased effort to promote green transportation alternatives such as electric vehicles and carpooling, which can help mitigate the adverse effects of commuting and travel. Previous literature has demonstrated that the intention of individuals to engage in green behaviors is affected by various factors, such as their personal motivation to create a positive change in their environment. However, the green behavior of different segments of the population needs to be further scrutinized to comprehend its prevalence and the resulting consequences. This paper aimed to understand the effect of green intrinsic motivation on ecological automobile use and the mediating role of green self-efficacy among middle-aged individuals using the theory of planned behavior. Findings show that green intrinsic motivation has a positive relationship with and predicts ecological automobile use among middle-aged individuals. Green self-efficacy mediates the relationship between green intrinsic motivation and ecological automobile use. Through discovering the psychological dynamics of establishing eco-friendly transport habits among this group, this study aims to provide effective solutions to design interventions and policies that would encourage green travel behavior. This understanding has significance for policymakers, who can use the findings of the study to frame interventions and policies promoting eco-friendly transportation alternatives.
Biomass recovery and wastewater treatment in shrimp aquaculture: A comparative study on the performance of HRAPS and PMBR
Authors: Hang Doan Thi Thu , Dat Truong Tan , Nghi Duong Ngoc , Nhu Nham Hai , Nam Le Hoai , Phuong Tran Thi Bich , Trung Le Duc , Tran Thanh 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
In this study, the utilization of Chlorella vulgaris microalgae for shrimp aquaculture wastewater treatment was explored through two photosynthetic systems: High-Rate Algae Ponds (HRAPs) and Membrane Photobioreactors (PMBR). The application of microalgae and bacteria in shrimp wastewater treatment in both systems exhibited good treatment efficiency, with effective removal rates of COD, N-NO3-, N-NO2-, N-NH4+, TN, and P-PO43- reaching 27.4%, 58.7%, -35%, 92.2%, 77%, and 93.5% respectively in the HRAPs model, and 29.7%, 24.5%, 26%, 83.9%, 75%, and 93.4% respectively in the PMBR model. Both models demonstrated similar capabilities in COD and P-PO43- removal. However, HRAPs showed higher efficiency in N-NO3- removal compared to PMBR, whereas PMBR was more effective in N-NO2- removal. Regarding daily biomass recovery, HRAPs achieved 5474 mg/day compared to PMBR, which reached 7265 mg/day, indicating a higher biomass recovery capability of PMBR over HRAPs. These results unveil the potential application of microalgae in shrimp aquaculture wastewater treatment, providing a comprehensive insight into the performance and advantages of each system in wastewater treatment and biomass recovery.
Investigating alkali-activated concrete with recycled aggregate substitution in experimental research
Authors: Sridhar B. , Sastri M.V.S.S. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
In the present experimental investigation, a constant (optimum) percentage of GGBFS and fly ash in Alkali activated concrete (AAC) of M40 grade equivalent concrete. The natural aggregates are incorporated at percentages of 0.5 and 1.0 in the AAC composition. The studies indicate that Fly ash AAC demonstrates lower strength due to the necessity of heat curing for proper development, while the inclusion of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) leads to decreased compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths, indicating a detrimental effect on mechanical properties. Despite slightly improved performance with 100% RCA content, it remains inferior to natural aggregates, attributed to adhered cement mortar potentially enhancing strength properties, which shows the need for further research to optimize mix designs and fully exploit the benefits of these alternative materials in AAC production.
Seismic isolation of liquefied natural gas storage tanks using quintuple friction pendulum system (QTFP)
Authors: Vyas Vipul H. , Panchal V. R. , Soni D. P. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The current study explores the dynamic behaviour of a compressed (liquefied) natural gas tanks (LNG) that is separated utilizing a Quintuple Friction pendulum (QTFP) device. This is done by evaluating different earth-quake motions happening along fault lines. The main objective of this investigation is to enhance the dynamic adaption of isolated Liquefied Natural Gas Tanks by the application of QTFP. A numerical model has been developed using the equations of motion to simulate the reaction of the LNG tanks to seismic excitations. A non-linear dynamic study using the Newmark-Beta approach has been conducted to compare the results of isolated and uncontrolled LNG Tanks. The simulation modelling technique has been carried through utilizing MATLAB Simulink to analyze the efficacy of the LNG Storage tanks. The investigation evaluated the tank’s displacement, acceleration, velocity, frequency characteristics, and base shear of the LNG tank. The findings reveal that the separation of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) through QTFP is successful when exposed to different seismic excitations, in contrast to uncontrolled LNG tanks. Seismic isolation improves LNG storage tank sustainability. These solutions limit seismic structural damage and leakage, decreasing risks to nearby ecosystems and populations. Thus, LNG storage facilities with seismic isolation technologies provide energy infrastructure sustainability, safety, and resilience.
Mechanical performance and co2 footprint analysis: recycled aggregate polypropylene geopolymer concrete compared with conventional concrete
Authors: Prasanthi Petluru , Rayabharapu Vijay Kumar , Rao Samanasa Krishna , Supraja Ambati , Vamshi Panthula 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Geopolymer concrete (GPC) has gained significant awareness in recent years as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional concrete due to its lower CO2 emissions and utilization of industrial waste materials. The cementitious material fly ash (FA), GGBS, silica fume (SF) with incorporation of polypropylene fiber (PF), recycled aggregates (RA) further promote the strength properties of geopolymer concrete, particularly in terms of ductility and crack resistance. Exploratory tests been conducted to assess the effects of various parameters including activator type, curing conditions, fiber content, and aggregate characteristics on the mechanical behaviour and CO2 emissions of geopolymer concrete (GPC). The mechanical performance aspects like as compressive strength(45.7Mpa), flexural strength(4.78Mpa), and split tensile strength(4.12Mpa) were attain by optimum mix design GPC-FG where cement substituted with ratio of FA:GGBS:SF - 40:50:10 and compressive strength(50.4Mpa), flexural strength(5.51Mpa) and split tensile strength(4.99Mpa) were attain by optimum mix design of Polypropylene based GPC-FGP where cement substituted with ratio of FA:GGBS:SF:PF - 40:49:10:1. The optimal mix design GPC-FG and GPC-FGP are compared there is raise in compressive strength of 9.325%, flexural strength of 13.241%,split tensile strength 17.434% of GPC-FGP, along with CO2 of polypropylene fiber-based geopolymer concrete with recycled aggregates as shown 60.01% reduction of CO2 when compared with traditional concrete. The results demonstrate the potential of geopolymer concrete to achieve comparable or superior mechanical performance while significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to conventional concrete. This research adds to sustainable construction knowledge by showcasing geopolymer concrete’s environmental benefits, mechanical strength, and potential applications in the industry and infrastructure development.
Study on strength and durability characteristics of geopolymer fly ash sand
Authors: Sudam Pupalwad Arti , Srinivas K. , Ankitha V. , Nihalini Ch. , Suresh Y.N.S. , Battini Chinmay 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
As the construction industry undergoes rapid growth, the deteriorating reserves of river sand have emerged as a critical issue, given its essential role in construction activities. The extraction of sand exacerbates this problem, leading to adverse consequences such as riverbank erosion, harm to aquatic ecosystems, and a decline in the water table. To sustain the construction sector, there is an urgent need for alternative sustainable granular materials. However, the durability characteristics of these substitutes in civil engineering applications remain uncertain. This research focuses on developing alternative sustainable granular materials to replace fine aggregates traditionally sourced from river sand. The study aims to demonstrate the preparation of new sustainable granular material using fly ash and compare its properties with those of river sand (RS), highlighting their significance and practical applications in civil engineering. The synthesized artificial fly ash sands are examined extensively for their physical properties (such as specific gravity, water absorption, specific surface area (SSA), and particle size distribution), chemical properties [including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS)], engineering properties [like cohesion (C), angle of shearing resistance(Φ), compression strength, and hydraulic conductivity], and durability properties [covering leaching, lime reactivity, and turbidity]. The previous research experiments have demonstrated that the results of this study hold significant value for professionals in the industry, as well as for academics and researchers. The synthesized geopolymer sand showed a similar strength compared to river sand. Moreover, these findings strengthen the feasibility of utilizing synthetic alternatives to river sand across a range of civil engineering applications.
SCGB1D4 downregulation links to fibrosis in intrauterine adhesion patients and rat models
Authors: Zhao Jing , Wang Yuanhui , Ma Chanchan , Feng Yifan , Wang Yunmeng , Sun Shiying 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) represent a prevalent uterine endometrial disorder frequently correlated with menstrual irregularities and infertility. Some members of the secretoglobin(SCGB) family have demonstrated anti-fibrotic effects, however, the specific role of SCGB1D4, one of the family members, in anti-fibrosis remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the expression of SCGB1D4 in IUA tissues, validate the role of SCGB1D4 in endometrial fibrosis, and assess its potential therapeutic significance by analyzing clinical features and constructing rat and cell models. Clinical characteristics of patients with intrauterine adhesions (IUA) were compared and analyzed against control subjects. Additionally, a rat uterine adhesion model was successfully established using a combination of mechanical injury and infection. The expression levels of SCGB1D4 in patient tissues and animal models were detected through immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR, and the changes in fibrosis markers COL1A1 and α-SMA were also evaluated. Furthermore, human endometrial stromal cell lines (HESCs) induced by transforming growth factor-β-1 conversion were differentiated into myofibroblasts to establish cell models of intrauterine adhesion. We detected the expression of SCGB1D4 and fibrosis-related factors by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot. Cell proliferation and cell cycle changes were assessed using flow cytometry and CCK8. IUA patients showed increased miscarriage rates and decreased endometrial thickness. Clinical tissue specimens revealed significantly lower expression of SCGB1D4 in the endometrial tissues of IUA patients, accompanied by a notable increase in COL1A1 and α-SMA. The established rat model of intrauterine adhesion exhibited decreased expression of SCGB1D4 and a significant increase in fibrosis. After overexpression of SCGB1D4 on the IUA cell model, SCGB1D4 expression was elevated, while COL1A1 and α-SMA expression was significantly reduced. Cell proliferation was inhibited and cell cycle distribution was altered. This study has confirmed the low expression of SCGB1D4 in patients with IUA, as well as in animal and cell models. Furthermore, the overexpression of SCGB1D4 in a cell model of IUA demonstrates that it may play a key role in inhibiting fibrosis. SCGB1D4 holds promise as a potential therapeutic target for IUA, providing a new avenue for overcoming fertility issues caused by IUA.
Optimal Annual COVID-19 Vaccine Boosting Dates Following Previous Booster Vaccination or Breakthrough Infection
Authors: Townsend Jeffrey P , Hassler Hayley B , Dornburg Alex 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 booster vaccinations mitigate transmission and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with infection. However, the optimal date for booster administration remains uncertain. Geographic variation in infection rates throughout the year makes it challenging to intuit the best yearly booster administration date to effectively prevent infection, and also challenging to provide best guidance on how to alter booster administration in response to a breakthrough infection.

Methods
We leveraged longitudinal antibody and reinfection probabilities with spatiotemporal projections of COVID-19 incidence to develop a geographically informed approach to optimizing the timing of booster vaccination. We assessed the delay in booster vaccination that is warranted following breakthrough infections whenever they occur during the year, enabling a personalized assessment of optimal timing that acknowledges and respects diversity of COVID-19 immune status, addressing a substantial barrier to uptake.

Results
Yearly booster vaccination on any date is beneficial to prevention of infection. However, each location exhibits as much as a 3–4-fold range in degree of protection by date of uptake. Optimal COVID-19 booster vaccination dates are location-specific, typically in early autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. Infection late in the interval between boosts substantially alters the optimal boosting date.

Conclusions
Considerable benefit accrues from aptly timing COVID-19 booster vaccination campaigns, which can be tailored to specific locations. Individuals can acquire the greatest benefit from booster vaccination by timing it optimally, including delaying in cases of infection late in the interval between boosts. These results provide location-specific guidance for public health policy, healthcare provider recommendations, and individual decision-making.
Temporal trend and attributable risk factors of cardiovascular disease burden for adults 55 years and older in 204 countries/territories from 1990 to 2021: an analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Wang Ming-si , Deng Jing-wen , Geng Wan-yue , Zheng Rui , Xu Hui-lin , Dong Ying , Huang Wei-dong , Li Yi-lan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Aims
The ageing global population and overall population growth have significantly increased the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This study aims to examine global temporal trends in the incidence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and mortality rates of both overall and type-specific CVDs among adults aged 55 and older from 1990 to 2021, with a focus on identifying changes over time, regional disparities, and the key risk factors contributing to this burden.

Methods and results
We analysed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, covering 204 countries and territories. Trends in age-standardized rates of incidence, DALY, and mortality for both overall and specific types of CVDs were assessed, alongside the impact of key risk factors. Between 1990 and 2021, global age-standardized incidence, DALY, and mortality rates showed a declining trend, with estimated annual percentage changes of −0.39, −1.30, and −1.11, respectively. However, due to overall population growth and ageing, the absolute number of CVD cases continued to rise. Regions with high–middle socio-demographic index (SDI) exhibited the highest incidence and mortality rates, while high SDI regions saw the greatest declines. Men had higher age-standardized rates of CVD incidence, DALY, and mortality compared with women. The burden increased with age, with the oldest age groups (80+ years) showing the highest rates. High systolic blood pressure was the leading modifiable risk factor, contributing to more than half of the CVD-related DALY globally. Other major risk factors included high LDL cholesterol, smoking, and ambient particulate matter pollution.

Conclusion
While age-standardized rates of CVD incidence, DALY, and mortality have declined over the past three decades, the total burden of CVDs continues to rise due to population ageing and growth. These findings highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies in regions with high CVD burden, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status.
Association between folate deficiency and hypertension: evidence from an observational and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Yanyu , Gao Darui , Liang Jie , Ji Mengmeng , Zhang Wenya , Pan Yang , Zheng Fanfan , Xie Wuxiang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Aims
Although folate intake might affect hypertension risk, evidence about the risk of hypertension according to an individual’s folate deficiency status is scarce. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the relationship between folate deficiency and hypertension, and their causal associations.

Methods and results
A cross-sectional and prospective cohort study was performed in the UK Biobank (UKB) to investigate the associations between folate deficiency and hypertension prevalence and incidence, using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard regression, respectively. Subsequently, we conducted one-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) with individual-level data from the UKB to further validate their causal associations. Finally, two-sample MR analyses were applied using summary-level data to further assess the causal relationships of serum folate with blood pressure (BP) and hypertension. In a total of up to 219 089 participants free of hypertension at enrolment, 17 670 participants developed hypertension after a median of 12.8 years of follow-up. Compared with participants without folate deficiency, those with folate deficiency had a higher risk of hypertension (HR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.24–1.63). One-sample MR analysis in the UKB provided supportive evidence for a causal effect of folate deficiency on hypertension risk (odds ratio for the highest quantile = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.04–1.10, Ptrend &lt; 0.001). Furthermore, two-sample MR also supported a protective effect of higher levels of serum folate on BP (for systolic BP: β = −2.313, 95% CI = −3.532, −1.094; for diastolic BP: β = −1.648, 95% CI = −3.085, −0.211) and hypertension (β = −0.049, 95% CI = −0.069, −0.029).

Conclusion
Observational and genetically determined folate deficiency were associated with hypertension, suggesting that folate deficiency might be a causal risk factor for hypertension.
Understanding factors influencing the use of specialized outdoor fitness equipment among older adults in Australia
Authors: Paudel Chahana , Timperio Anna , Loh Venurs , Salmon Jo , Deforche Benedicte , Veitch Jenny 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This study assessed the use of newly installed outdoor fitness equipment (OFE) designed for older adults in two urban parks in Melbourne, Australia, and explored barriers and facilitators to its use among older adults. Direct observations were conducted using System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to assess OFE usage by older adults (≥60 years) at two time points: T1 (November 2021) and T2 (October 2022). Additionally, 140 older adults (60–86 years, 59.3% female) were interviewed at T2 to explore their perceptions of OFE. Across both parks and timepoints, OFE usage by older adults was minimal. At T1, only 0.7% of older park visitors at Park A were observed using the OFE, while no visitors at Park B were observed using it. At T2, 2.8% and 0.7% of older adults at Parks A and B, respectively, were observed using the OFE. Interviews revealed various barriers to OFE usage, including personal factors (health concerns and time constraints), lack of knowledge about the equipment, perceptions about equipment suitability, and crowding by children. Facilitators for enhancing use of OFE included promotional efforts, instructional classes, improved equipment design and encouraging social engagement. Given the minimal usage of OFE by older adults identified in this study, addressing barriers and leveraging facilitators are essential to maximize the return on public investment, promote active ageing and foster improved overall well-being among older adults.