bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wastewater treatment from a typical multisystem hospital using chemically modified banana peels: Taguchi parametric optimization and characterization
Authors: Popoola Lekan Taofeek , Yusuff Adeyinka Sikiru , Taura Usman , Oladokun Davidway Ireoluwa , Adeyi Abel Adekanmi , Aderibigbe Tajudeen Adejare 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe study aims to develop an eco-friendly solution for addressing contaminants in hospital wastewater. To achieve this, banana peel, a cost-effective and easily available agricultural waste, was chemically modified using sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide. The hospital wastewater was analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer to identify the presence of heavy metals. The physicochemical properties were measured and compared against the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used to characterize the chemically modified banana peel. Batch adsorption was conducted with the wastewater using the prepared adsorbent. The effect of contact time, mixing rate, temperature, and adsorbent dosage was examined to know the removal efficiency of the adsorbent. The experimental design incorporates Taguchi OA design to optimize the process. The total heavy metals discovered in the wastewater were As, Cd, Fe, Cu, Ni, Cr, Pb, Mn and Zn. The percentage of Cd, Fe, Cu, Ni, Cr and Pb removed were 79.5%, 87.9%, 56.9%, 89.0%, 88.5% and 93.5%, respectively, at temperature, adsorbent dosage, mixing rate and contact time of 30 °C, 3 g, 700 rpm and 60 min, respectively. The physicochemical properties remain within the acceptable WHO range except the turbidity. At optimum point, the percentage removal of Cd, Fe, Cu, Ni, Cr, Pb and Zn were 64.3%, 80.5%, 51.4%, 82.3%, 72.4%, 86.6% and 72.1%, respectively; while, the conductivity, pH, TDS, and turbidity value were, respectively, 20.57 mS/cm, 6.8, 10.16 mg/l, and 86.31 NTU. Characterization revealed the existence of active functional groups on the adsorbent surface enhancing the hospital wastewater treatment and change in its morphological structure after the treatment was noticed. In conclusion, the modified banana peel was effective for the treatment of hospital wastewater.
Shallow groundwater quality and health risk assessment of fluoride and arsenic in Northwestern Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Wang Shou , Chen Jing , Zhang Shuxuan , Bai Yanjie , Zhang Xiaoyan , Jiang Wei , Yang Shengyun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAssessing groundwater quality is critical to regional water resource conservation and human health safety, especially in areas with co-existence of toxic constituents fluoride (F−) and arsenic (As). In this study, fourteen groundwater samples were collected in Feng County, Northwestern Jiangsu Province to identify dominant contaminants and their spatial distribution and health risk. The composition and variation characteristics of major ions (K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl−, SO42−, HCO3−, and NO3−) and trace elements (F−, As, and Mn) were analyzed. The hydrochemical results revealed that high F− groundwater was mainly distributed in the northern areas whereas As-riched groundwater was primarily distributed in southern areas. Notably, over 85.7% and 21.4% of the shallow groundwater samples exceeded the drinking water quality standard of 1.5 mg/L for F− and 10 µg/L for As, respectively. Based on the water quality index (WQI) appraisal result, 71.4% of the groundwater in the study area is classified as “poor”, and thus unsuitable for drinking directly. We assessed the human non-carcinogenic health risk of F− (HQFluoride) and As (HQArsenic) and the carcinogenic health risk of As (CRArsenic). The calculated hazard quotient (HQ) for F− indicated nearly all groundwater samples have an unacceptable risk (HQ > 1) for each age group. However, HQArsenic values revealed that 28.6%, 21.4%, 21.4%, and 21.4% of groundwater samples posed potential non-carcinogenic health risks for infants, children, females, and males, respectively. The calculated results of CRArsenic showed that 0%, 21.4%, 28.6%, and 28.6% of groundwater samples posed unacceptable health risks (CR > 1.0 × 10−4) to infants, children, females, and males, respectively. The groundwater irrigation suitability assessment results showed that 21.4% of samples were doubtful to unsuitable for irrigation, and 85.7% owed magnesium hazards. The findings of this study will assist policymakers in formulating proper remedial policies and mitigation strategies to ensure the safety of drinking and irrigation water.
Water physicochemical quality as driver of spatial and temporal patterns of microbial community composition in lake ecosystems
Authors: Loucif Karim , Chenchouni Haroun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study aimed at monitoring and management of the surface water and potentially pathogenic microbes of Lake Tonga (Algeria) with respect to. It characterized the main bacterial diversity patterns of Lake Tonga and predicted from water physicochemical parameters and water quality index (WQI) the distribution of bacterial species and the main indicator groups of faecal water contamination. Water samples were taken monthly at three sampling sites of different water depths. Several physicochemical parameters were measured; of which some were included in computing WQI to characterize the water quality of the lake. Counting, isolation and bacterial identification methods were used to characterize the existing aerobic heterotrophic bacteria. The composition of the microbial community of the waterbody of Lake Tonga included an abundant culturable bacterial flora belonging to several bacterial families and whose specific richness varied between water depths of the sites sampled. Species richness of the bacteria identified phenotypically varied between 7 and 11 per sample. The site with shallow water was the richest in bacterial species, compared to moderate and deep waters. The redundancy analysis showed the main physicochemical drivers of the microbial community composition. Our findings showed that high WQI scores indicated the water quality deterioration which triggered the increase in total load of faecal indicator bacterial groups. This study identified in Lake Tonga an important culturable aerobic bacterial flora whose specific richness and distribution varied spatially following the effects of water physicochemical parameters. Lake Tonga needs an integrated management plan to mitigate human disturbances declining water quality.
A critical review on the effect of silanization on the ceramic membrane distillation (CMD): performance, operational factors, and characterization
Authors: Nayeri Danial , Mousavi Seyyed Alireza 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis review for the first time aims to investigate the effect of silanization on the ceramic membrane distillation (CMD) as a promising thermally driven separation process. In this regard, the effects of three main factors, namely silane concentration, silane duration, and time as well as the important operating parameters on the process were studied. At the end of this work, future challenges and recommendations in the CMD have also been addressed. The literatures have confirmed that silanization of the CM surface, causes significant changes in the membrane structure in terms of hydrophobicity (water contact angle > 130°), creating different functional groups on the surface and improving the efficiency of the process. The results of previous research woks indicate that the best conditions for the silanization process are possible at silanization time (about 72 h), the number of grafting cycles (1–5 times), and silane concentration (2 or 10 wt%). Concluding the results of various studies shows that the efficiency of the MD for desalination process was high (removal > 98%) under certain conditions (feed input temperature: 70–80 °C and flow rate of 0.3–400 L/h).
Introducing high-order response surface method for improving scour depth prediction downstream of weirs
Authors: Hameed Mohammed Majeed , Khaleel Faidhalrahman , AlOmar Mohamed Khalid , Mohd Razali Siti Fatin , AlSaadi Mohammed Abdulhakim , Al-Ansari Nadhir 
Published: May 2024

AbstractScour depth downstream of weirs is considered one of the most important hydraulic problems, which greatly influences the stability of weirs. Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) methods have become increasingly popular in modeling hydraulic variables, especially scour depth, because they can capture nonlinear relationships between input variables and their associated objectives. Despite their importance, these models have problems with hyperparameter tuning in scour depth modeling due to their structures, so algorithms must be used to tune the hyperparameters. Moreover, these algorithms are usually tuned by using the trial-and-error method to select the hyperparameters such as the number of hidden nodes, transfer function, and learning rate, and in this case, the main problem is overfitting during the training phase. To solve these problems, the high-order response surface method (HORSM), an improved version of the response surface method (RSM), is used as an alternative approach for the first time in this study to predict the scour depth. The HORSM model is based on high-order polynomial functions (from two to six) compared with the artificial neural network model (ANN). The findings indicate that the fifth order of the HORSM polynomial function yields the most precise predictions, with a higher coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.912 and Willmott Index (WI) of 0.972 compared to the values obtained using ANN (R2 = 0.886 and WI = 0.927). Moreover, the accuracy of the predictions is represented by a reduction of the mean square error by up to 44.17 and 29.01% compared to the classical RSM and ANN, respectively. The suggested model established an excellent correlation and accuracy with experimental values.
Integrity assessment of shale gas wells in Changning Block based on hierarchical analysis method
Authors: Wei Luo , Fu Chenlong , Li Wenzhe , Gao Yanzhe , Guo Lixue , Liu Yangyang , Liang Fuyuan , Jia Aoyin , Guo Quanying 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe integrity of shale gas wells is crucial in ensuring safety and efficiency throughout the development process. Such integrity spans the entire process of drilling and fracturing horizontal wells and is an essential indicator for ensuring safe and stable production throughout the lifespan of the well. This study investigates methods for assessing the integrity of shale gas wells by employing the analytic hierarchy process combined with experimental data to establish evaluation criteria and weights. The assessment is carried out specifically on shale gas wells in Changning Block. Results indicate that the integrity of these shale gas wells is influenced by various factors, such as drilling and fracturing processes. Moreover, the integrity assessment of indicators such as oil layer casing/technical casing, liquid carrying capacity, and tube column deformation is relatively low, indicating a need for enhanced monitoring and management. The comprehensive evaluation results indicate that, overall, the integrity rating of shale gas wells is generally considered “common,” but some potential safety hazards still remain that require timely attention and resolution. Case analysis reveals varying levels of integrity risks in shale gas wells. Case 1’s score of 93.51 warrants attention but is still deemed generally safe. However, Case 2’s score of 73.89 indicates a disaster level, emphasizing urgent intervention needs. Critical factors such as pressure, cementation quality, and corrosion demand proactive management for safe, sustainable operations.
Using three-dimensional model-based tumour volume change to predict the symptom improvement in patients with renal cell cancer
Authors: Fu ChengWei , Dong JinKai , Zhang JingYun , Li XueChao , Zuo ShiDong , Zhang HongTao , Gao Shen , Chen LiJun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn our recent study, we explored the efficacy of three-dimensional (3D) measurement of tumor volume in predicting the improvement of quality of life (QoL) in patients suffering from renal cell cancer (RCC), who were treated with axitinib and anti-PD-L1 antibodies. This study encompassed 18 RCC patients, including 10 men and 8 women, with an average age of 56.83 ± 9.94 years. By utilizing 3D Slicer software, we analyzed pre- and post-treatment CT scans to assess changes in tumor volume. Patients' QoL was evaluated through the FKSI–DRS questionnaire. Our findings revealed that 3D models for all patients were successfully created, and there was a moderate agreement between treatment response classifications based on RECIST 1.1 criteria and volumetric analysis (kappa = 0.556, p = 0.001). Notably, nine patients reported a clinically meaningful improvement in QoL following the treatment. Interestingly, the change in tumor volume as indicated by the 3D model showed a higher area under the curve in predicting QoL improvement compared to the change in diameter measured by CT, although this difference was not statistically significant (z = 0.593, p = 0.553). Furthermore, a multivariable analysis identified the change in tumor volume based on the 3D model as an independent predictor of QoL improvement (odds ratio = 1.073, 95% CI 1.002–1.149, p = 0.045).In conclusion, our study suggests that the change in tumor volume measured by a 3D model may be a more effective predictor of symptom improvement in RCC patients than traditional CT-based diameter measurements. This offers a novel approach for assessing treatment response and patient well-being, presenting a significant advancement in the field of RCC treatment.
International doctoral students’ identity formulations through their orientations to their children’s languages as both stressors and assets
Authors: Filipi Anna 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study contributes to research on the doctoral experience of international students who are parents, and for whom the temporary experience of living elsewhere is both a challenge and a resource for all members of the family. The study investigated how a group of these students positioned themselves to their children’s English and home language during their study abroad. A group of 12 international doctoral students from one Australian university and one primary school teacher took part in the study. The doctoral students were from a number of non-anglophone countries. Membership Categorisation Analysis was used to examine the identity categories invoked during focus group discussions. The categories bilingual, student, parent, tutor and spouse, the category devices family, study, nationality/language, time and location, and the attributes responsibility and inadequacy that emerged in the analysis, suggest that language issues are important considerations for international students with families, and need focused attention.
Using interpersonal meaning making resources to build relationships and improve engagement in online teacher professional learning
Authors: Adlington Rachael , Quinn Frances , Charteris Jennifer , Rizk Nadya , Volpe Catherine Rita 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
As professional learning and development (PLD) for teachers moves online, it is increasingly important to consider what constitutes effective provision. While models of effective PLD abound, online PLD faces challenges to participant engagement. In particular, the critical need to build and maintain relationships in professional learning is complicated by the geographic and temporal distribution of online participants as well as the nuances of the technology in use. We argue that online PLD occurs in collaborative text-spaces within learning management systems, social media spaces and their attendant learning objects such as forums. As such, persistent challenges to engagement in online PLD may be met by considering the language-based interpersonal affordances of these text-spaces. We employ a small-scale corpus study and appraisal analysis to demonstrate the value of Systemic Functional Linguistics in addressing the challenges of online learning, particularly how the meaning making resources of the interpersonal metafunction can be used to improve participant engagement.
Australia’s ECEC workforce pipeline: Who and how many are pursuing further qualifications?
Authors: McKinlay Sharon , Thorpe Karen , Whiteford Chrystal , Bentley Laura , Irvine Susan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
The significant shortfall of staff in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) workforce identifies an imperative not only to recruit educators but to support ongoing qualifications and career advancement of those within. Indeed, Shaping Our Future, Australia’s workforce strategy for 2022–2031 identifies qualifications and career development as key focus areas. Taking this imperative, we asked Who? and How many? within the Australian workforce are committed to ongoing study? Analysing a national survey (N = 1291), we examine characteristics of those studying (20.5%) intending (52.3%) or wavering about further study (18.7%). Study and study intention were associated with being younger and at early career-stage, identifying a positive message for career growth. Those who were older or working part-time were less certain about ongoing training. Those with long tenure in ECEC had higher rates of studying for non-ECEC qualifications. Implications for qualification pipeline, career pathways and workforce strategy are discussed.
A new canonical affine bracket formulation of Hamiltonian classical field theories of first order
Authors: Gay-Balmaz François , Marrero Juan C. , Martínez Alba Nicolás 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIt has been a long standing question how to extend, in the finite-dimensional setting, the canonical Poisson bracket formulation from classical mechanics to classical field theories, in a completely general, intrinsic, and canonical way. In this paper, we provide an answer to this question by presenting a new completely canonical bracket formulation of Hamiltonian Classical Field Theories of first order on an arbitrary configuration bundle. It is obtained via the construction of the appropriate field-theoretic analogues of the Hamiltonian vector field and of the space of observables, via the introduction of a suitable canonical Lie algebra structure on the space of currents (the observables in field theories). This Lie algebra structure is shown to have a representation on the affine space of Hamiltonian sections, which yields an affine analogue to the Jacobi identity for our bracket. The construction is analogous to the canonical Poisson formulation of Hamiltonian systems although the nature of our formulation is linear-affine and not bilinear as the standard Poisson bracket. This is consistent with the fact that the space of currents and Hamiltonian sections are respectively, linear and affine. Our setting is illustrated with some examples including Continuum Mechanics and Yang–Mills theory.
Aqueous Extracts of Cannabis sativa: Cytotoxicity and Effects on Angiogenesis, Oxidative Stress and Nitric Oxide Production
Authors: Erhabor Joseph Omorogiuwa , Rademan Sunelle , Erukainure Ochuko Lucky , Matsabisa Motlalepula Gilbert 
Published: May 2024

AbstractCannabis sativa has been used in local medicine to manage cancer, ache, inflammation, diabetes, and other conditions. The aqueous extract of Cannabis sativa leaves collected from two geographical locations (South Africa, EC and Lesotho, LS) was assessed for their potential against angiogenesis, nitric oxide (NO) production, oxidative stress and cytotoxicity. The EC extract showed better angiogenesis and vascular endothelial growth factor suppression than the LS extract at 20 and 100 µg/mL. EC and LS displayed their highest NO inhibitory effects (91 and 76%) at the most negligible 1.6 µg/mL concentration. The glutathione and Catalase levels increased significantly in the MCF-7 cells following administration with EC and LS. In contrast, a decrease in the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the cells' supernatant was found compared to the untreated cells. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis reveals the presence of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinoilic acid (THCA), with EC and LS having a considerable number of similar peaks. The extracts were relatively non-cytotoxic within the concentration range evaluated (0.78125 -100–µg/mL), though selective effects on cell survival at some concentrations were observed. The study provides information to support the extensive folkloric use of the aqueous extract of C. sativa in cancer and other associated ailments, as well as diseases linked to oxidative stress. Studies on the aqueous extract using animal models or other relevant in vivo models are recommended.
Secondary osteoporosis prevention: three-year outcomes from a Fracture Liaison Service in elderly hip fracture patients
Authors: González-Quevedo David , Rubia-Ortega Carolina , Sánchez-Delgado Adriana , Moriel-Garceso Diego , Sánchez-Siles Juan-Manuel , Bravo-Bardají Manuel , García-de-Quevedo David , Tamimi Iskandar 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Hip fractures are the most serious fragility fractures due to their associated disability, higher hospitalization costs and high mortality rates. Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) programs have enhanced the management of osteoporosis-related fractures and have shown their clinical effectiveness.

Aims
To analyze the effect of the implementation of a FLS model of care over the survival and mortality rates following a hip fracture.

Methods
We conducted a prospective cohort study on patients over 60 years of age who suffered a hip fracture before and after the implementation of the FLS in our center (between January 2016 and December 2019). Patients were followed for three years after the index date. Mortality, complications and refracture rates were compared between the two groups using a Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model.

Results
A total of 1366 patients were included in this study (353 before FLS implementation and 1013 after FLS implementation). Anti-osteoporotic drugs were more frequently prescribed after FLS implementation (79.3% vs 12.5%; p < 0.01) and there was an increase in adherence to treatment (51.7% vs 30.2%; p < 0.01). A total of 413 (40.8%) patients after FLS implementation and 141 (39.9%) individuals before (p = 0.47) died during the three-years follow-up period. A second fracture occurred in 101 (10.0%) patients after FLS implementation and 37 (10.5%) individuals before (p = 0.78). Patients after the implementation of the FLS protocol had a lower all cause one-year mortality [adjusted Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.74 (0.57–0.94)] and a decreased risk of suffering a second osteoporotic fracture [adjusted HR 0.54 (0.39–0.75) in males and adjusted HR 0.46 (0.30–0.71) in females].

Conclusions
The implementation of a FLS protocol was associated with a lower all-cause one-year mortality rate and a higher survivorship in elderly hip fracture patients. However, no three-year mortality rate differences were observed between the two groups. We also found a reduction in the complication and second-fracture rates.