bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Detection of environmental DNA of finless
porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis) in Osaka Bay,
Japan
Authors: Hashimoto Nagisa , Iwata Takashi , Kihara Natsumi , Nakamura Kiyomi , Sakata Masayuki K. , Minamoto Toshifumi 
Published: May 2024

AbstractFinless porpoises (Neophocaena
asiaeorientalis) currently face population decline caused by
significant human activities and are categorized as endangered on the International
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List; however, information on their
habitats is currently insufficient. Although conducting visual surveys to determine
the distribution of cetaceans is common, visual observation of finless porpoises is
challenging owing to their specific morphological and ecological characteristics. In
this study, we developed an environmental DNA (eDNA) assay for species-specific
detection of finless porpoises. To test the utility of the assay, we conducted a
visual survey in parallel with an eDNA survey by collecting water samples from 50
sites throughout Osaka Bay. We visually found a finless porpoise at one location and
detected eDNA at nine sites, including sites near the visual observation site and
those with rare sightings of finless porpoises. Therefore, in this study, we suggest
that the use of eDNA analysis for distribution surveys of finless porpoises will
enable more efficient surveys. The proposed eDNA technique can not only be applied
to the distribution surveys finless porpoises but also to those of other cetacean
species.
Who Should Be Running Ahead? The Roles of Two Types of Entrepreneurship in China’s Regional Economies
Authors: Zhang Ying , van Stel André 
Published: May 2024

AbstractOne of the most important transitions of China from a centrally planned economy to a market-based economy was the emergence of entrepreneurship in two different forms of private enterprise, viz., getihu and siyingqiye. Getihu firms are legally restricted to a household ownership structure and a firm size upper limit. Siyingqiye firms do not face these restrictions but are more costly to set up. Using a unique database for 31 Chinese regions over the period 1997–2009, we investigate the economic antecedents of regional rates of getihu and siyingqiye, and to what extent these antecedents are in line with the “entrepreneurial” or the “managed” economy as per Audretsch and Thurik (Audretsch and Thurik, Journal of Evolutionary Economics 10:17–34, 2000, Audretsch and Thurik, Industrial and Corporate Change 10:267–315, 2001). We find that particularly the antecedents of regional siyingqiye rates are in line with the “entrepreneurial” economy in the sense that regional economies that are more conducive to knowledge production and knowledge spillovers have higher rates of siyingqiye firms. Overall, our analysis suggests that both types of entrepreneurship play important but distinct roles in stimulating China’s economic development.
Modification-fair cluster editing
Authors: Froese Vincent , Kellerhals Leon , Niedermeier Rolf 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
The classic Cluster Editing problem (also known as Correlation Clustering) asks to transform a given graph into a disjoint union of cliques (clusters) by a small number of edge modifications. When applied to vertex-colored graphs (the colors representing subgroups), standard algorithms for the NP-hard Cluster Editing problem may yield solutions that are biased towards subgroups of data (e.g., demographic groups), measured in the number of modifications incident to the members of the subgroups. We propose a modification fairness constraint which ensures that the number of edits incident to each subgroup is proportional to its size. To start with, we study Modification-Fair Cluster Editing for graphs with two vertex colors. We show that the problem is NP-hard even if one may only insert edges within a subgroup; note that in the classic “non-fair” setting, this case is trivially polynomial-time solvable. However, in the more general editing form, the modification-fair variant remains fixed-parameter tractable with respect to the number of edge edits. We complement these and further theoretical results with an empirical analysis of our model on real-world social networks where we find that the price of modification-fairness is surprisingly low, that is, the cost of optimal modification-fair solutions differs from the cost of optimal “non-fair” solutions only by a small percentage.
Hydrothermal carbonization of sugar beet pulp: optimization and characterization
Authors: Yıldız Uzun Zeynep 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this study, the optimum hydrothermal conditions of sugar beet pulp were investigated by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Design (CCD). The hydrochar obtained from sugar beet pulp (SBP) was optimized for maximum yield and carbon content. Process conditions were chosen with reaction temperatures of 200–240 °C, residence time 60–150 min, and biomass to water ratio of 1:3–1:10. The yield and carbon content of the hydrochar varied with the process parameters. In order to obtain hydrochar with the highest yield and carbon content in optimization, the reaction temperature should be 220.74 °C, the biomass to water ratio should be 1:3, and the residence time should be 95.58 min. High heating value, energy and mass yield, and energy densification ratio of sugar beet pulp and hydrochar were also investigated. The products were characterized using FT-IR, SEM, and ultimate analysis techniques. The Coats-Redfern method was used to estimate the kinetic parameters of the combustion processes. The activation energy values of SBP and SBP-HC products were calculated as 13.88 and 11.46 kJ/mol, respectively. The kinetic data were used to determine the thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔG, and ΔS). As a result, the properties of hydrochar produced from sugar beet pulp under optimum conditions have been extensively investigated and the results have shown that hydrochar has potential for use in different areas.
Effect of Barley and Oat Consumption on Immune System, Inflammation and Gut Microbiota: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Cortijo-Alfonso María-Engracia , Romero María-Paz , Macià Alba , Yuste Silvia , Moralejo Marian , Rubió-Piqué Laura , Piñol-Felis Carme 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of whole grain Avena sativa and Hordeum vulgare L., or their isolated fractions, on immune and inflammatory functions, as well as their influence on gut microbiota. A structured literature search was undertaken in line with PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of oats or barley consumption in adults and reported ≥ 1 of the following: C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-2, IL-8, IL-18, lipopolysacharide binding protein (LBP) or gut microbiota-related outcomes, were included.

Recent Findings
A total of 16 RCTs were included, among which 6 studies recruited metabolically at-risk population, including individuals with overweight and obesity, metabolic syndrome or hypercholesterolemia. Additionally, 3 trials involved young healthy population, 5 trials targeted older individuals (aged over 50 years), and 2 studies encompassed populations with other disease states. A total of 1091 individuals were included in the evaluation of short-term (up to 14 days) and long-term (beyond 14 days, up to 90 days) supplementation with oats or barley-based products. 9 studies measured inflammatory biomarkers and 5 of them reported significant reductions, specifically in long-term studies. Notably, no evidence of anti-inflammatory benefits was found in healthy individuals, whereas studies involving metabolically at-risk populations showed promising reductions in inflammation. 13 studies measured the impact on gut microbiota, and collectively suggest that oats and barley food products can influence the composition of gut microbiota, associated in some cases with metabolic improvements.

Summary
Oats and barley consumption may confer anti-inflammatory effects in metabolically at-risk populations and influence gut microbiota outcomes. However, no anti-inflammatory benefits were observed in healthy individuals. Results from this systematic review suggests caution in interpreting findings due to limited trials and variations in interventions and health conditions.
Loa loa and Mansonella perstans infections in non-endemic countries: a narrative review
Authors: Alladio Francesca , Buonfrate Dora , Scarso Salvatore , Bisoffi Zeno , Gobbi Federico 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Loiasis and mansonellosis are filarial infections potentially causing a relevant impact on morbidity and mortality. In non-endemic countries, there is poor awareness on these conditions, and clinical management is not standardized. Aim of this work is to review current evidence on cases diagnosed in non-endemic areas, in order to guide clinical management.

Recent Findings
In non-endemic areas, a wider range of symptoms and signs have been reported for both infections, compared to endemic areas. Diagnostic tools include parasitological tests, serology and molecular methods, each one potentially playing a different role (i.e. for screening, determination of microfilarial load, etc). Treatment is not standardized, and first-line drugs might not be available everywhere.

Summary
Loiasis and mansonellosis can be diagnosed in non-endemic countries; here we comment on strategies for screening, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up in clinical practice.
Experimental study and numerical simulation of the impact of under-sleeper pads on the dynamic and static mechanical behavior of heavy-haul railway ballast track
Authors: Chi Yihao , Xiao Hong , Wang Yang , Zhang Zhihai , Nadakatti Mahantesh M. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLaying the under-sleeper pad (USP) is one of the effective measures commonly used to delay ballast degradation and reduce maintenance workload. To explore the impact of application of the USP on the dynamic and static mechanical behavior of the ballast track in the heavy-haul railway system, numerical simulation models of the ballast bed with USP and without USP are presented in this paper by using the discrete element method (DEM)—multi-flexible body dynamic (MFBD) coupling analysis method. The ballast bed support stiffness test and dynamic displacement tests were carried out on the actual operation of a heavy-haul railway line to verify the validity of the models. The results show that using the USP results in a 43.01% reduction in the ballast bed support stiffness and achieves a more uniform distribution of track loads on the sleepers. It effectively reduces the load borne by the sleeper directly under the wheel load, with a 7.89% reduction in the pressure on the sleeper. Furthermore, the laying of the USP changes the lateral resistance sharing ratio of the ballast bed, significantly reducing the stress level of the ballast bed under train loads, with an average stress reduction of 42.19 kPa. It also reduces the plastic displacement of ballast particles and lowers the peak value of rotational angular velocity by about 50% to 70%, which is conducive to slowing down ballast bed settlement deformation and reducing maintenance costs. In summary, laying the USP has a potential value in enhancing the stability and extending the lifespan of the ballast bed in heavy-haul railway systems.
Temperature control by simulated adaptive layer times in powder bed fusion processes
Authors: Behrens Christoph , Ostermann Niklas , Sehrt Jan T. , Ploshikhin Vasily 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this work, a simulation-based thermal management model for metal parts produced through powder bed fusion (PBF) is proposed. PBF is an additive manufacturing technique that employs a high-energy beam to selectively melt and fuse powder particles layer by layer. The productivity and efficiency of PBF processes can be significantly increased using multi-laser systems with larger build volumes. However, this approach affects the parts thermal history, which can significantly impact their mechanical properties, microstructure, and defects. To address this issue, an algorithm has been developed to calculate adaptive cooling times reaching predefined temperatures at the end of each layer. The algorithm is used in a fast thermal process simulation using layer lumping. The simulation model is applied to a modern multi-laser machine, and the effectiveness of the adaptive cooling times and minimal layer times is evaluated. The results indicate that lower maximum temperatures can be achieved in less manufacturing time with adaptive cooling times than with minimal layer times. However, the significant increase in manufacturing time highlights the need for active cooling systems to utilize multi-laser machines fully. In summary, this paper presents a significant contribution to the field of additive manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of thermal management in ensuring the quality and performance of metal parts produced through PBF.
Integrated attitude—orbit control of solar sail with single-axis gimbal mechanism
Authors: Chujo Toshihiro , Watanabe Kei , Takao Yuki 
Published: May 2024

AbstractA new attitude control method for solar sails is proposed using a single-axis gimbal mechanism and three-axis reaction wheels. The gimbal angle is varied to change the geometrical relationship between the force due to solar radiation pressure (SRP) and the center of mass of the spacecraft, such that the disturbance torque is minimized during attitude maintenance for orbit control. Attitude maneuver and maintenance are performed by the reaction wheels based on the quaternion feedback control method. Even if angular momentum accumulates on the reaction wheels due to modelling error, it can also be unloaded by using the gimbal to produce suitable torque due to SRP. In this study, we analyzed the attitude motion under the reaction wheel control by linearizing the equations of motion around the equilibrium point. Further, we newly derived the propellent-free unloading method based on the analytical formulation. Finally, we constructed the integrated attitude-orbit control method, and its validity was verified in integrated attitude-orbit control simulations.
Optimization of batch process parameters for chromium (VI) removal from synthetic wastewater using eggshell–clay composite
Authors: Talukder Prashanta , Sultana Razia , Naim Mustafizur Rahman , Turzo Plabon Islam , Naher Umme Habiba Bodrun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this study, a biodegradable spherical adsorbent bead was developed from eggshell (ES) and Bijoypur clay (BC) for the removal of hexavalent chromium from synthetic tannery wastewater. This Eggshell–Clay polymer composite (ES–BC) was made by incorporating them with PVA and alginate. To analyze the morphology and chemical composition of the adsorbent before and after the chromium adsorption, SEM, FTIR, XRD, and EDX were used. The impact of adsorption parameters such as adsorbent dosage (0.67–2.23 g/L), pH of the solution (1.5–9), contact time (10–240 min), initial Cr (VI) concentration (25–100 ppm), and solution temperature (25–65 °C), percentage clay in ES-BC adsorbent (0–40%) for Cr (VI) adsorption were investigated. The optimum value for adsorbent dosage, pH, contact time, initial Cr concentration, temperature, and clay to eggshell ratio was found 1.17 g/L, 1.5, 150 min, 58.2 ppm, 25 °C, and 80/20% respectively. The isotherm model was well-fitted to the Freundlich isotherm suggesting heterogeneous adsorption in multilayer on surface. The adsorption kinetics followed pseudo-second-order kinetics supporting the chemisorption process. Moreover, a decrease in enthalpy (H°) and negative Gibbs free energy (G°) with increased temperature indicated exothermic and spontaneous reaction. Therefore, this research investigated that the composite may serve as a viable option for treating Cr (VI) containing tannery effluent.
Impact of arsenate on the growth and metabolism of cyanobacterial strains isolated from gold-mining areas
Authors: Obuekwe Ifeyinwa S. , Vaz Marcelo G. M. V. , Veloso Renato , Mello Jaime V. , Ogugbue Chimezie J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractFour cyanobacterial strains isolated from arsenic (As) contaminated area in Minas Gerais, Brazil namely: Pseudanabaena spp. CCM-UFV063 and CCM-UFV065, Tolypothrix sp CCM-UFV067, and Desmonostoc sp. CCM-UFV070 were grown on BG-11 and BG-110 culture media respectively supplemented with di-sodium hydrogen arsenate heptahydrate (As5+) at concentrations of 0, 1, 10, 100, 1000 and 5000 mg L−1. The growth was measured by means of optical density daily for seven (7) days. Contents of chlorophyll a, carbohydrates, protein, and amino acids were also evaluated. Fluorescence Spectroscopy and ICP-OES were used to quantify As in cells. The cellular growth, based on OD750nm, was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in 5000 mg L−1 As. Chlorophyll a, carbohydrates and protein contents were significantly (P < 0.05) lowest in 5000 mg L−1 As. Amino Acid content of studied cyanobacteria varied and were higher in higher As concentrations except for Pseudanabaena sp. CCM-UFV065. Similarly, As cells accumulation was dependent on concentration and showed the order of 5000 mg L−1 > 1000 mg L−1 > 100 mg L−1 > 10 mg L−1 > 1 mg L−1 All studied cyanobacteria showed ability to absorb As(V) especially Pseudanabaena sp. CCM-UFV065 and could all be potential isolates for bioremediation of As-contaminated waters.
Seismic performance of HECC/RC beam–column external joint with no stirrup and reduced anchorage length in core region
Authors: Mao Wei-Hao , Liu Jie-Peng , Ou Xing-Jian , Qi Hong-Tuo , Nishiwaki Tomoya , Ding Yao 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, steel–polyethylene hybrid fiber-reinforced strain-hardening cementitious composites (HECC) are applied in beam–column external joint core region to form a novel HECC/reinforced concrete (RC) composite beam–column joint with reduced anchorage length of beam longitudinal rebar and eliminated transverse rebar, and thus to alleviate rebar congestion and simplify the construction process efficiently especially for precast RC frame structures. Five external beam–column joint specimens are constructed and tested under cyclic loading to illustrate the influences of the anchorage length of beam longitudinal rebar and longitudinal rebar ratio on the seismic performance of beam–column joint. The effects of design parameters on seismic performance, including hysteresis behavior, degradation of strength, energy dissipation capacity, and cracking patterns are discussed in detail. Experimental results indicate that the replacement of normal concrete with HECC in beam–column joint core region could apparently reduce the amount of stirrups in the joint core area while maintaining reliable seismic behavior. Remarkably, specimen with no stirrups in the core area exhibits nearly equivalent seismic behavior to that of the control RC specimen. Furthermore, the application of HECC in joint core area allows for a substantial reduction of the required anchorage length for the beam longitudinal rebar to 9d, which further simplifies the construction process considerably.
Preliminary microstructural research of clay solid bricks taken from historic buildings located in Poland
Authors: Hoła Anna , Kierzek Krzysztof , Żak Andrzej 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe article presents the results of the preliminary experimental research and analysis of the structure of samples of clay solid bricks from six historical buildings erected in Poland in the years 1300 to 1910. Images obtained with a scanning electron microscope; parameters characterizing the pore space of the ceramic material, which were obtained using mercury porosimetry; and chemical composition identified using an energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, were analyzed. The test results showed that as the age of the brick increases, the homogeneity of its structure decreases, the chemical composition of all samples is quite similar, and in the tested samples, large disproportions in the percentage of pore width in individual ranges can be observed. An indicator P-index useful in comparing the studied structures was proposed, based on the knowledge of the share of the pores’ width within the adopted ranges.
Wading through crises: the lived experiences of social work students through the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Oni-Eseleh Ohiro , McGuirk Shannon 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis qualitative case study explored the lived experiences of social work students through the Covid-19 pandemic. In the weeks following the detection of Covid-19 in the United States, educational institutions closed down on very short notice and administrators scrambled to develop plans that would ensure as little disruption as possible to faculty teaching and student learning. For social work students, the consequent developments were extensive, affecting learning in the classroom and field. Nineteen social work students at a university in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States were interviewed about their lived experiences during the pandemic. The findings revealed that students had significant concerns at the beginning of the pandemic, most of which abated with time because of decisions and adjustments made by university administrators, faculty and students. Field education produced extensive demands on university administrators, students and field agencies to innovate in ways that they had not previously prepared for. Furthermore, an overwhelming number of students developed new perceptions of their own abilities having successfully navigated the challenges and responsibilities of the period.
Management of safety and health hazards associated with construction and demolition waste in Zimbabwe
Authors: Jerie Steven , Shabani Takunda , Shabani Tapiwa 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe management of safety and health hazards associated with construction and demolition waste in Zimbabwe is a critical issue that requires comprehensive attention. Purpose: This review paper provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of safety and health hazards associated with construction and demolition waste management sector in Zimbabwe. Methods: Literature was searched from various databases for example African Journals Online, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer, Sage Publications, Google Scholar and Scopus. Key words such as construction and demolition waste, waste management, safety hazards, health hazards and risk assessment were used to retrieve data from different databases. Results: The paper finds that construction and demolition waste management is associated with physical, chemical, biological and ergonomic hazards. The review posits that there are existing regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms related to safety and health in construction and demolition waste management in Zimbabwe for example Environmental Management Act [Chapter 20:27] and Urban Councils Act [Chapter 29:15]. Risk assessment and use of personal protective equipment were highlighted as strategies to manage safety and health hazards associated with construction and demolition waste in Zimbabwe. Proper handling, storage, transportation and disposal of construction and demolition waste reduce its impacts to the people and the environment. Challenges affecting Zimbabwe in managing safety and health hazards associated with construction and demolition waste include economic constraints, lack of awareness and education as well as limited recycling and waste treatment facilities. Conclusion: Overall, this paper aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry professionals, researchers and other stakeholders to enhance safety and health standards in construction and demolition waste management practices in Zimbabwe.