bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relative abundance and the fate of human rotavirus in wastewater during treatment processes: identification of potential infectious rotavirus in the final effluents and receiving aquatic milieu in Durban area, South Africa
Authors: Omatola Cornelius Arome , Olasehinde Tosin Abiola , Olaniran Ademola Olufolahan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe occurrence and persistence of rotaviruses in raw and treated wastewater and their discharge into rivers represent a significant health risk for humans and animals, worldwide. In this study, samples were collected monthly from each of the four Durban wastewater treatment plants (DWWTPs) and receiving rivers for a period of 3 months. Rotavirus was quantified by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), and viability was assessed using integrated cell culture (ICC)-qPCR. Rotavirus was detected consistently in 100% of influent wastewaters (mean concentration range, 4.36–4.46 log10 genome equivalent (GE) copies/L) and final effluent samples of three DWWTPs (range, 3.35–3.61 log10 GE copies/L). Overall, 94% (45/48) of the wastewater analyzed and 95% (20/21) of the associated river water samples were positive for rotavirus (range, 2.04–6.77 log10 GE copies/L). The activated sludge process with 0.10–0.43 log10 reduction values (LRV) only moderately reduced the viral loads. Similarly, one of the DWWTPs that operated the biofilter modality produced 0.20 LRV. Though the additional treatment with chlorine produced higher LRV (range, 0.31–0.53) than the corresponding activated sludge or biofilter process, the difference in viral removals was not significant (p > 0.05). The equivalent treatment efficiencies of the four DWWTPs varied from 19 to 43% decay in the population of rotavirus. Further, infectious rotavirus ranging from 66.67 to 100%, 50 to 100%, and 66.67 to 100% were detected in the post-activated sludge, final effluents, and river water samples, respectively. In conclusion, the findings of infectious rotavirus in both the final effluents and associated rivers represent an infection risk for humans or animals during contact. Thus, close monitoring for rotavirus and risk assessment studies under distinct exposure scenarios may further shed light on the health-related risks associated with water recovery and reuse in urban settings.
TIMES-Europe: An Integrated Energy System Model for Analyzing Europe’s Energy and Climate Challenges
Authors: Luxembourg Stefan L. , Salim Steven S. , Smekens Koen , Longa Francesco Dalla , van der Zwaan Bob 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis paper introduces TIMES-Europe, a novel integrated multi-sectoral energy system optimization model for Europe based on the TIMES generator. We describe its main specifications and assumptions as well as its underlying methodology, and summarize the type of policy questions that it can help answering. TIMES-Europe can be used to analyze policy instruments designed for implementing the EU Green Deal and Fit-for-55 program, and to create strategic energy decarbonization and climate change mitigation insights for Europe against the backdrop of its interactions and relations with neighboring countries. Thanks to its technology richness across all main sectors—including power production, transport, industry and the commercial, agricultural and residential sectors—it allows for performing in-depth studies on the role of a large range of low-carbon options in the energy transition of all European countries, both jointly and individually. Three characteristics render TIMES-Europe particularly valuable: (1) it covers the entire European energy system and its main greenhouse gas emissions, (2) it includes all EU member states individually as well as a large set of countries in the EU’s vicinity, and (3) it can be used to generate high-level strategic insights as well as detailed recommendations for both national and EU policies. TIMES-Europe is especially suitable for analyzing system integration, which makes it an ideal tool for assessing the implementation of the energy transition and the establishment of a low-carbon economy. We present several research and scenario examples, and characterize opportunities for future energy and climate policy analysis.
How do Expert and Novice Teachers Monitor and Enhance Student Understanding? Qualitative Comparisons Informing the Design of a Digital Formative Assessment Platform
Authors: Gross Sebastian , Hankeln Corinna , Rösike Kim-Alexandra , Prediger Susanne 
Published: July 2024

AbstractDigital formative assessment tools have been identified as a promising support for mathematics teachers’ practices of monitoring and enhancing students’ understanding. However, more research is required to align these support affordances better with teachers’ practices. In a qualitative expert-novice comparison, we investigated how expert and novice teachers use diagnostic information (about fifth graders’ understanding of multiplication and division) for their practices of monitoring, personalized goal setting, and enhancing student understanding. From the identified differences in aligning these practices to each other, we derive design implications for five different analytic reports in the digital formative assessment platform, not only correctness overviews and detailed error-focused reports and, but also three kinds of aggregated dashboards, here called individual-focused, task-focused, and learning trajectory-integrating dashboards that support different aspects of the goal-setting, monitoring, and enhancing practices.
Rethinking the Accessibility of Hearing Assessments for Children with Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Bonino Angela Yarnell , Mood Deborah , Dietrich Mary S. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe aim to determine the accessibility of gold-standard hearing assessments – audiogram or auditory brainstem response (ABR) – during the first 3 months of hearing health care for children with and without developmental disabilities. Electronic health records were examined from children (0–18 years) who received hearing health care at three hospitals. Children with developmental disabilities had a diagnosis of autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or intellectual disability. Assessments from the first 3 months were reviewed to determine if ≥ 1 audiogram or ABR threshold was recorded. To evaluate differences in assessment based on disability status, logistic regression models were built while accounting for age, race, ethnicity, sex, and site. Of the 131,783 children, 9.8% had developmental disabilities. Whereas 9.3% of children in the comparison group did not access a gold-standard assessment, this rate was 24.4% for children with developmental disabilities (relative risk (RR) = 3.79; p < 0.001). All subgroups were at higher risk relative to the comparison group (all p < 0.001): multiple diagnoses (RR = 13.24), intellectual disabilities (RR = 11.52), cerebral palsy (RR = 9.87), Down syndrome (RR = 6.14), and autism (RR = 2.88). Children with developmental disabilities are at high risk for suboptimal hearing evaluations that lack a gold-standard assessment. Failure to access a gold-standard assessment results in children being at risk for late or missed diagnosis for reduced hearing. Results highlight the need for (1) close monitoring of hearing by healthcare providers, and (2) advancements in testing methods and guidelines.
Prey Preferences for Three Aquatic Hemipterans Provide Insights About Their Coexistence
Authors: Statton Allison D. , Cothran Rickey D. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe explored the potential of differences in foraging preferences to contribute to long-term species coexistence in aquatic predatory hemipterans. We hypothesized that predatory hemipterans would have distinct foraging preferences informed by their morphology. We used a prey choice experiment to test whether Belostoma flumineum, Pelocoris biimpressus, and Ranatra australis differed in their relative preferences of amphipod, damselfly naiad, and physid snail prey. We discovered that the predators showed complementarity in their foraging preferences with B. flumineum preferring snails, P. biimpressus damselfly naiads and R. australis amphipods as prey. Our results suggest that the disparate foraging preferences of aquatic hemipterans may facilitate their coexistence in aquatic systems but caution that studies need to explore whether patterns uncovered in the laboratory experiment reflect interactions in nature.
Construction of some new traveling wave solutions to the space-time fractional modified equal width equation in modern physics
Authors: Badshah Fazal , Tariq Kalim U. , Inc Mustafa , Rezapour Shahram , Alsubaie Abdullah Saad , Nisar Sana 
Published: July 2024

AbstractNonlinear fractional evolution equations are important for determining various complex nonlinear problems that occur in various scientific fields, such as nonlinear optics, molecular biology, quantum mechanics, plasma physics, nonlinear dynamics, water surface waves, elastic media and others. The space-time fractional modified equal width (MEW) equation is investigated in this paper utilizing a variety of solitary wave solutions, with a particular emphasis on their implications for wave propagation characteristics in plasma and optical fibre systems. The fractional-order problem is transformed into an ordinary differential equation using a fractional wave transformation approach. In this article, the polynomial expansion approach and the sardar sub-equation method are successfully used to evaluate the exact solutions of space-time fractional MEW equation. Additionally, in order to graphically represent the physical significance of created solutions, the acquired solutions are shown on contour, 3D and 2D graphs. Based on the results, the employed methods show their efficacy in solving diverse fractional nonlinear evolution equations generated across applied and natural sciences. The findings obtained demonstrate that the two approaches are more effective and suited for resolving various nonlinear fractional differential equations.
Time-modulated planar frequency diverse array for multi-target detection
Authors: Zainud-Deen Saber H. , Azzam Doaa M. , Malhat Hend A. , Badawy Mona M. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe frequency diverse array (FDA) is a very interesting technique in wireless communications. Many research papers are introduced in this field. A lot of them is concerned with linear point sources array. In this paper, a design of a time-modulated planar frequency diverse array architecture is proposed for tracking single or multi-target for the first time. The time-modulation array (TMA) and FDA are combined for detecting single and multi-target. The effectiveness of this combined scheme is demonstrated through simulation results that compared with a point source case to show its superior performance. Authors introduce planar FDA array instead of linear FDA array and realize the planar array using cylindrical dielectric resonator antenna array (CDRA). A planar array consists of 8 × 8 CDRA is used to enable the detection of single target/multi-target. The operating frequency of the antenna is set at 10 GHz, aligning with its applications in the FDA radar. The radiation characteristics of the CDRA antenna element are introduced. High maximum gain of 6 dBi is achieved with a remarkably high efficiency. A set of representative results is reported and analyzed to assess the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Contrasting effects of climate change on denitrification and nitrogen load reduction in the Po River (Northern Italy)
Authors: Gervasio Maria Pia , Soana Elisa , Gavioli Anna , Vincenzi Fabio , Castaldelli Giuseppe 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAn increase in water temperature is one of the main factors that can potentially modify biogeochemical dynamics in lowland rivers, such as the removal and recycling of nitrogen (N). This effect of climate change on N processing deserves attention, as it may have unexpected impacts on eutrophication in the coastal zones. Intact sediment cores were collected seasonally at the closing section of the Po River, the largest Italian river and one of the main N inputs to the Mediterranean Sea. Benthic oxygen fluxes, denitrification, and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) rates were measured using laboratory dark incubations. Different temperature treatments were set up for each season based on historical data and future predictions. Higher water temperatures enhanced sediment oxygen demand and the extent of hypoxic conditions in the benthic compartment, favoring anaerobic metabolism. Indeed, warming water temperature stimulated nitrate (NO3−) reduction processes, although NO3− and organic matter availability were found to be the main controlling factors shaping the rates between seasons. Denitrification was the main process responsible for NO3− removal, mainly supported by NO3− diffusion from the water column into the sediments, and much more important than N recycling via DNRA. The predicted increase in the water temperature of the Po River due to climate change may exert an unexpected negative feedback on eutrophication by strongly controlling denitrification and contributing to partial buffering of N export in the lagoons and coastal areas, especially in spring.
Graphical Abstract
Social Life Cycle Assessment in the construction sector: current work and directions for future research
Authors: Barbero Irini , Rezgui Yacine , Beach Thomas , Petri Ioan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose
While social aspects are considered as part of Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA), the concept of Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA) is relatively new in the construction sector, and more research is needed to comprehend its full potential and inform practice to deliver socially sustainable interventions. The paper aims to provide an account of current work in the field of S-LCA in the construction sector and presents an overview of the methodologies and frameworks that are currently used, with a focus on the critical analysis of impact categories applied to the construction sector.

Methods
The paper adopts a systematic review of the literature with the objective to (a) provide a holistic and cross-disciplinary overview of the S-LCA methodologies and frameworks in the construction sector, (b) explore existing gaps, and (c) frame directions for future research.

Results and discussion
Several gaps have been identified in relation to the S-LCA research landscape applied to the construction sector, which have, in turn, informed the formulation of recommendations for future research.

Conclusions
The paper emphasises the importance and the need to intensify efforts to develop and reach consensus on the categories and criteria to deliver an S-LCA framework for Social Life Cycle Assessment of built environments. The framework, underpinned by a methodology, should involve an adaptable weighting system that considers the nature of the building as well as the type and profile of occupants. It should also factor in dynamic data to inform real-time adaptations to continuously deliver socially sustainable built environment interventions.
Incentive system to smooth out fluctuations in demand
Authors: Martin Michael , Gneiting Steffen , Benfer Martin , Lanza Gisela 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The global market is influenced by multiple factors such as market trends, cultural dynamics, and geopolitical uncertainties. In this context service providers often face volatile demand patterns leading to sub-optimal capacity utilization. This approach presents an incentive system to smooth out fluctuations in demand and to enhance service provider efficiency. This system computes optimal service prices based on projected capacity utilization. By including insights from past orders and demand forecasts, the algorithm facilitates proactive price adjustments to adapt to changing market dynamics. To implement this system effectively, seamless integration within the service provider’s digital infrastructure is essential. This involves establishing standardized Asset Administration Shells to enable the exchange of critical information and the execution of process-related services. This ensures interoperability with existing components, fostering a cohesive operational environment. The approach is validated within the infrastructure of a medium-sized service provider and demonstrates its potential for wider industry adoption. By leveraging dynamic pricing mechanisms and digital infrastructure, the proposed incentive system offers a systematic solution to address demand volatility, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and competitiveness in the dynamic market landscape.
The Role of Engineering Ethics in Mitigating Corruption in Infrastructure Systems Delivery
Authors: Ghahari S. A. , Queiroz C. , Labi S. , McNeil S. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIndications that corruption mitigation in infrastructure systems delivery can be effective are found in the literature. However, there is an untapped opportunity to further enhance the efficacy of existing corruption mitigation strategies by placing them explicitly within the larger context of engineering ethics, and relevant policy statements, guidelines, codes and manuals published by international organizations. An effective matching of these formal statements on ethics to infrastructure systems delivery facilitates the identification of potential corruption hotspots and thus help establish or strengthen institutional mechanisms that address corruption. This paper reviews professional codes of ethics, and relevant literature on corruption mitigation in the context of civil engineering infrastructure development, as a platform for building a structure that connects ethical tenets and the mitigation strategies. The paper assesses corruption mitigation strategies against the background of the fundamental canons of practice in civil engineering ethical codes. As such, the paper’s assessment is grounded in the civil engineer’s ethical responsibilities (to society, the profession, and peers) and principles (such as safety, health, welfare, respect, and honesty) that are common to professional codes of ethics in engineering practice. Addressing corruption in infrastructure development continues to be imperative for national economic and social development, and such exigency is underscored by the sheer scale of investments in infrastructure development in any country and the billions of dollars lost annually through corruption and fraud.
Thyroid dysfunction in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: a pilot study on the putative role of miR-29a and TGFβ1
Authors: Trotta Maria Consiglia , Esposito Daniela , Carotenuto Raffaela , di Fraia Rosa , Selvaggio Lucia Digitale , Allosso Francesca , Russo Marina , Accardo Giacomo , Alfano Roberto , D’Amico Michele , Pasquali Daniela 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose:
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) is one of the most common causes of thyroid dysfunction in iodine sufficient worldwide areas, but its molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. To this regard, this study aimed to assess serum levels of miRNA-29a (miR-29a) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) in HT patients with different patterns of thyroid function.

Methods:
A total of 29 HT patients, with a median age of 52 years (21–68) were included. Of these, 13 had normal thyroid function (Eu-HT); 8 had non-treated hypothyroidism (Hypo-HT); 8 had hypothyroidism on replacement therapy with LT4 (subst-HT). All patients had serum miR-29a assayed through qRT-PCR and serum TGFβ1 assayed by ELISA.

Results:
Serum miR-29a levels were significantly down-regulated in patients with Hypo-HT compared to Eu-HT patients (P < 0.01) and subst-HT patients (P < 0.05). A significant negative correlation was detected between serum miR-29a levels and TSH levels (r = −0.60, P < 0.01). Serum TGFβ1 levels were significantly higher in Hypo-HT than both Eu-HT (P < 0.01) and subst-HT patients (P < 0.05). A negative correlation was observed between serum miR-29a and TGFβ1 (r = −0.75, P < 0.01).

Conclusions:
In conclusion, Hypo-HT patients had lower levels of serum miR-29a and higher levels of TGFβ1 in comparison with Eu-HT patients. Worthy of note, subst-HT patients showed restored serum miR-29a levels compared with Hypo-HT group, associated with lower serum TGFβ1. These novel findings may suggest a possible impact of replacement therapy with levothyroxine on serum miR-29a levels in HT.
SEOM-GEMCAD-TTD clinical guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of gastric cancer (2023)
Authors: Rivera Fernando , Longo Federico , Martín Richard Marta , Richart Paula , Alsina Maria , Carmona Alberto , Custodio Ana Belén , Fernández Montes Ana , Gallego Javier , Fleitas Kanonnikoff Tania 
Published: July 2024

AbstractGastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide with a varied geographic distribution and an aggressive behavior. In Spain, the incidence is lower and GC represents the tenth most frequent tumor and the seventh cause of cancer mortality. Molecular biology knowledge allowed to better profile patients for a personalized therapeutic approach. In the localized setting, the multidisciplinary team discussion is fundamental for planning the therapeutic approach. Endoscopic resection in very early stage, perioperative chemotherapy in locally advanced tumors, and chemoradiation + surgery + adjuvant immunotherapy for the GEJ are current standards. For the metastatic setting, biomarker profiling including Her2, PD-L1, MSS status is needed. Chemotherapy in combination with checkpoint inhibitors had improved the outcomes for patients with PD-L1 expression. Her2 positive patients should receive antiHer2 therapy added to chemotherapy. We describe the different evidences and recommendations based on the literature.
A comparison of Vietnamese and Chinese human smuggling networks transporting people to the UK; similarities and differences in methods used and the experience of migrants travelling to and living in the UK
Authors: Whittle Joseph , Silverstone Daniel 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe smuggling of Chinese and Vietnamese nationals to the UK has garnered significant media, public and government attention. Both nationalities continue to feature prominently in reporting of modern slavery and trafficking where popular narratives indicate people from both countries are mostly forced into exploitative conditions having been tricked or compelled by circumstance to migrate illegally to the UK by organised crime groups. This article, based on research carried out over the past decade compares who, how and why people from Vietnam and China are smuggled and the types of criminal organisations involved in their movement and any subsequent criminality. It argues that whilst a minority of those smuggled may experience human trafficking, most do not and are economic migrants. In so doing it underscores the dissonance between public narratives and lived experience of those undertaking migration and demonstrates that broad brush enforcement responses to illegal migration are unlikely to be successful.