bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of ammonia concentration on the treatment of bio electrochemical leachate using MFCs technology
Authors: Ishaq Aliyu , Said Mohd Ismid Mohd , Azman Shamila Binti , Abdulwahab Mohd Firdaus , Houmsi Mohamad Rajab , Jagun Zainab Toyin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have garnered attention in bio-electrochemical leachate treatment systems. The most common forms of inorganic ammonia nitrogen are ammonium (

$${NH}_{4}^{ +}$$

NH

4

+

) and free ammonia. Anaerobic digestion can be inhibited in both direct (changes in environmental conditions, such as fluctuations in temperature or pH, can indirectly hinder microbial activity and the efficiency of the digestion process) and indirect (inadequate nutrient levels, or other conditions that indirectly compromise the microbial community’s ability to carry out anaerobic digestion effectively) ways by both kinds. The performance of a double-chamber MFC system—composed of an anodic chamber, a cathode chamber with fixed biofilm carriers (carbon felt material), and a Nafion 117 exchange membrane is examined in this work to determine the impact of ammonium nitrogen (

$${NH}_{4}-N$$

NH

4

-
N

) inhibition. MFCs may hold up to 100 mL of fluid. Therefore, the bacteria involved were analysed using 16S rRNA. At room temperature, with a concentration of 800 mg L−1 of ammonium nitrogen and 13,225 mg L−1 of chemical oxygen demand (COD), the study produced a considerable power density of 234 mWm−3. It was found that

$${NH}_{4}-N$$

NH

4

-
N

concentrations above 800 mg L−1 have an inhibitory influence on power output and treatment effectiveness. Multiple routes removed the most nitrogen (

$${NH}_{4}^{ +}$$

NH

4

+

-N: 87.11 ± 0.7%, NO

2

–

N: 93.17 ± 0.2% and TN: 75.24 ± 0.3%). Results from sequencing indicate that the anode is home to a rich microbial community, with anammox (6%), denitrifying (6.4%), and electrogenic bacteria (18.2%) making up the bulk of the population. Microbial fuel cells can efficiently and cost-effectively execute anammox, a green nitrogen removal process, in landfill leachate.
Life cycle assessment: from industry to policy to politics
Authors: Jegen Maya 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Life cycle assessment (LCA) has established itself as part of the sustainability toolkit of the private sector, informing environmental decision-making and improving environmental performance. However, we know less about its use in the public sector. To what extent and how do governments refer to LCA in their public policies? We review the literature on the use of LCA in public policy and gauge how LCA has penetrated public policymaking through its incorporation in different policy instruments across various sectors. We then discuss the politics of LCA use in policymaking.

Methods
We review the literature on LCA from a public policy and social science perspective (1) and back our argument with information from a dozen interviews with LCA experts from government, consultancy, and academia in France, Germany, Switzerland, and the EU (2).

Results
We show that, along with the growing importance of target setting and science-based environmental and climate policymaking, LCA has penetrated the realm of public policy in OECD countries in different policy sectors. Our understanding of the politics of LCA use in policymaking is however deficient, which leads us to outline a research agenda.

Conclusions
With the growing importance of LCA in public policy, societal values, public/private governance, state capacity, and political agency should be addressed in further research.
Wirkung sprachsensibler Unterrichtsansätze – Ergebnisse eines systematischen Reviews
Authors: Höfler Martha , Woerfel Till , Vasylyeva Tetyana , Twente Leonie 
Published: December 2023

ZusammenfassungDie vergleichenden Schulleistungsstudien der 2000er Jahre haben gezeigt, dass ein enger Zusammenhang zwischen Sprachlernen und Fachlernen besteht. Seitdem erfahren sprachsensible Unterrichtsansätze in Bildungspolitik und -praxis zunehmend Aufmerksamkeit, mit dem Ziel, schulische Leistungen besser zu fördern. Eine umfassende empirische Bewertung der Wirkung solcher Ansätze stand jedoch bislang noch aus. Der Beitrag berichtet erstmalig die Forschungssynthese eines großangelegten systematischen Reviews, das untersucht hat, ob sprachsensible Unterrichtsansätze im Primar- und Sekundarbereich nachweislich wirkungsvoller sind, als regulärer Fachunterricht. Aus 3016 Dokumenten wurden 55 internationale Wirkungsstudien zu sprachsensiblen Ansätzen identifiziert. Nach der Qualitätsbewertung der Befunde flossen 53 Studien in die Forschungssynthese ohne Metaanalyse ein. Im Ergebnis liegen Wirkbefunde zu 30 sprachsensiblen Ansätzen vor. Translanguaging, Reciprocal Teaching (RT), Collaborative Strategic Reading (CSR), Scaffolding nach Gibbons und das Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) sind mehrfach überprüft, zu 25 weiteren Ansätzen wurde nur jeweils eine Belegstudie ermittelt. Die meisten Untersuchungen (n = 38) zeigen in Teilbereichen des Lernens bessere, mindestens aber vergleichbare Effekte. Die Forschungssynthese liefert ein umfassendes Bild des internationalen Forschungsstandes zur Wirkung von sprachsensiblem Unterricht im Primar- und Sekundarbereich und zeigt die unterschiedliche Qualität der empirischen Evidenz zu den jeweiligen Unterrichtsansätzen.
Characterization and Validation of a Lyophilized Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Method for the Detection of Esox lucius
Authors: Jothinarayanan Nivedhitha , Karlsen Frank , Roseng Lars Eric 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIn many ways, globalization is beneficial, but in one way, it promotes the spread of alien (invasive) species through international trade and transport. In different habitats, Esox lucius (northern pike) can be considered a regionally alien species, and this fish tends to establish a higher density population than desired in fresh water. Early identification of such invasive species using sensitive and quick methods is important to be able to take immediate measures and avoid environmental problems. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has emerged as the best DNA/RNA detection technique, without any expensive equipment and could be used to detect environmental DNA (eDNA). However, the reagents for amplification are not stable at ambient temperature for field applications. Therefore, this work aims to lyophilize the entire reaction mixture as a single microbead, with enzyme, and LAMP primers towards the detection of mitochondrial cytochrome B (Cyt B), a housekeeping gene in Esox lucius. Analytical and molecular techniques were performed to characterize and validate the lyophilized beads, respectively. The lyophilized beads were stored at two different temperatures, at 20 °C and 4 °C, and tested for biological activity after different time intervals. The result shows that lyophilized beads are bioactive for almost 30 days when stored at 20 °C, while beads at 4 °C did not lose their bioactivity after storage for up to one year. This study will be particularly useful for conducting on-site LAMP analyses in the field, where resources for freezing and storage are limited.
Graphical Abstract
Economic and Productive Comparison of Rutin and Rutin-Loaded Chitosan Alginate Nanoparticles Against Lead-Induced Oxidative Stress in Cobb and Arbor Broiler Breeds
Authors: Wahed Noha M. , Abomosallam Mohamed , Hendam Basma M , Shouman Zeinab , Hashem Nada MA , Sakr Shimaa A. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractRutin, a natural bioflavonoid compound, is one of the best-known antioxidants. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of rutin-loaded chitosan alginate nanoparticles (RCA NPs) against lead (Pb)-induced oxidative stress in two different broiler breeds. A total number of 240 chicks from Cobb (CB) and Arbor Acres (AR) breeds were randomly allocated into 4 groups/breed. The 1st group received standard basal diet (SD) and drinking water (DW) while the 2nd group received SD and Pb-incorporated DW (350 mg/L). The 3rd group treated with both rutin-supplemented SD (50 mg/kg feed), and DW contain Pb (350 mg/L). Finally, the 4th group administered RCA NPs-supplemented SD (50 mg/kg feed) and Pb-incorporated DW (350 mg/L). On the 40th day of experiment, broilers weighed, and blood samples collected for biochemical and hematological analysis then slaughtered. Economic efficiency, growth performance, and oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated. Gene expression level of growth-associated genes as insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) and histopathological changes were assessed in liver and intestinal tissue of both breeds. Our results revealed that Pb-treated birds exhibited the lowest average body weight gain (BWG) and economic efficiency measures in both breeds while RCA NPs-treated groups revealed enhanced growth and economic performance. Furthermore, diet supplementation with RCA NPs considerably enhanced the antioxidant enzymes activity and expression of growth-associated genes than groups treated with rutin alone specifically in AR breed. In conclusion, RCA NPs supplementation could be a promising nanoformulation in poultry production through enhancing the antioxidant capacity and bioavailability of rutin.
Graphical Abstract
On the computation of Delaunay triangulations via genetic algorithms
Authors: Dimitriou Paraskevas , Karyotis Vasileios 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIn this work, we introduce a new approach for computing Delaunay triangulations. Delaunay triangulations have numerous applications in geolocation, communications and other ICT systems or practical applications. Having available various types of approaches for computing such structures is rather desired from an implementation and computational point of view. We adopt Genetic Algorithms for computing Delaunay triangulations and present the design and evaluation of our novel approach. We consider a set of points in the plane as vertices and connect them with edges, creating the point graph. We have developed in C++ an application framework based on genetic algorithms, called , which produces the Delaunay triangulation structure of a given set of points in the plane. considers a novel graph-based chromosome representation of desired solutions, creates an initial population of individuals (chromosomes), an initial generation, and produces from the original population (generation) new generations of individuals in each repetition of the genetic process of Reproduction. Each new generation emerges more robust than the previous one. Our evaluations have revealed that the Delaunay triangulation yielded by , achieves an accuracy of 98–100% of the optimal Delaunay triangulation, while maintaining good convergence speed. Despite its limitations in computational time and space, the proposed novel approach exhibits several complementary benefits to computational geometry based approaches, such as allowing the insertion of new points in the triangulation dynamically, leading to seamless adaptation to new conditions, parallelization of the computational process and tolerance to noise regarding the coordinates of the points. Therefore, this work provides a useful alternative approach for computing Delaunay triangulations.
Fuzzy logic applied to mutation size in evolutionary strategies
Authors: Krzysztof Pytel 
Published: December 2023

AbstractTuning of algorithm parameters is a complex but very important issue in the design of Evolutionary Algorithms. This paper discusses a new concept of mutation size tuning in Evolutionary Strategies. The proposed algorithm uses data on evolutionary history in earlier generations to tune the mutation size. A Fuzzy Logic Part examines this historical data and tunes the mutation size of individuals to improve the algorithm’s convergence and its resistance to getting stuck in a local optimum. The Fuzzy Logic Part tunes the mutation size and keeps an appropriate relation of algorithm’s exploration and exploitation. The proposed concept is discussed, and several tests on Function Optimization Problems are performed. In tests, we use a set of data and functions with different difficulties recommended in the commonly used benchmarks. The results of experiments suggest that the proposed method is more efficient and resistant to getting stuck in suboptimal solutions. The proposed algorithm has been used in recognizing the type of ultra-high energy cosmic ray particle that initiates the Extensive Air Showers when hit the Earth atmosphere. It could be used for a wide range of similar problems. It is possible that the proposed method could be adapted to other types of optimization methods, inspired by natural evolution, for example, Evolutionary Algorithms.
Deep learning approach using SPECT-to-PET translation for attenuation correction in CT-less myocardial perfusion SPECT imaging
Authors: Kawakubo Masateru , Nagao Michinobu , Kaimoto Yoko , Nakao Risako , Yamamoto Atsushi , Kawasaki Hiroshi , Iwaguchi Takafumi , Matsuo Yuka , Kaneko Koichiro , Sakai Akiko , Sakai Shuji 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
Deep learning approaches have attracted attention for improving the scoring accuracy in computed tomography-less single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). In this study, we proposed a novel deep learning approach referring to positron emission tomography (PET). The aims of this study were to analyze the agreement of representative voxel values and perfusion scores of SPECT-to-PET translation model-generated SPECT (SPECTSPT) against PET in 17 segments according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

Methods
This retrospective study evaluated the patient-to-patient stress, resting SPECT, and PET datasets of 71 patients. The SPECTSPT generation model was trained (stress: 979 image pairs, rest: 987 image pairs) and validated (stress: 421 image pairs, rest: 425 image pairs) using 31 cases of SPECT and PET image pairs using an image-to-image translation network. Forty of 71 cases of left ventricular base-to-apex short-axis images were translated to SPECTSPT in the stress and resting state (stress: 1830 images, rest: 1856 images). Representative voxel values of SPECT and SPECTSPT in the 17 AHA segments against PET were compared. The stress, resting, and difference scores of 40 cases of SPECT and SPECTSPT were also compared in each of the 17 segments.

Results
For AHA 17-segment-wise analysis, stressed SPECT but not SPECTSPT voxel values showed significant error from PET at basal anterior regions (segments #1, #6), and at mid inferoseptal regions (segments #8, #9, and #10). SPECT, but not SPECTSPT, voxel values at resting state showed significant error at basal anterior regions (segments #1, #2, and #6), and at mid inferior regions (segments #8, #9, and #11). Significant SPECT overscoring was observed against PET in basal-to-apical inferior regions (segments #4, #10, and #15) during stress. No significant overscoring was observed in SPECTSPT at stress, and only moderate over and underscoring in the basal inferior region (segment #4) was found in the resting and difference states.

Conclusions
Our PET-supervised deep learning model is a new approach to correct well-known inferior wall attenuation in SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging. As standalone SPECT systems are used worldwide, the SPECTSPT generation model may be applied as a low-cost and practical clinical tool that provides powerful auxiliary information for the diagnosis of myocardial blood flow.
Global navigation satellite systems’ receivers in mountain running: the elevation problem
Authors: Szot Tomasz , Sontowski Marcin 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe popularity of sports and recreational receivers of the global navigation satellite systems is steadily increasing and provides athletes, coaches, and scientists with a wealth of information on movement occurring both horizontally and vertically. Under mountainous conditions, considering the effort put in by the athlete as well as their safety, the elevation parameter appears to be particularly relevant. The aim of the study was to propose a methodology for assessing sports receivers in terms of their determination of the elevation component based on digital elevation models while paying attention to the appropriate measures for testing these devices. The methodology was applied for wrist-worn global navigation satellite systems’ receivers used by the participants of an uphill running event. In terms of elevation determination, the most accurate three receivers (same model) were those supported by the barometric altimeter, in which the Root Mean Square result obtained ranged from 3.6 to 4.1 m. The majority of receivers underestimated the total elevation gain, the mean value of which was −3.8%, which does not appear to be affected by the reception of two global navigation satellite systems or the use of a barometric altimeter. The error characteristics were common within the group of receivers of a particular manufacturer.
Impact of adoption of better management practices and nutrition-sensitive training on the productivity, livelihoods and food security of small-scale aquaculture producers in Myanmar
Authors: Dompreh Eric Brako , Rossignoli Cristiano M. , Griffiths Don , Wang Quanli , Htoo Khaing Kyaw , Nway Hsu Myat , Akester Michael , Gasparatos Alexandros 
Published: December 2023

AbstractSmall-scale aquaculture is a major source of food in Myanmar. Beyond its importance for food security and nutrition, small-scale aquaculture contributes to the livelihoods of many rural households and is a potentially valuable strategy for rural development. However, small-scale aquaculture producers have limited access to improved production technologies and information, which hampers the productivity and socioeconomic performance of small-scale aquaculture systems. In this study we assessed the impact of the adoption of better management practices and exposure to nutrition-sensitive training by 379 small-scale aquaculture producers in the Sagaing and Shan regions of Myanmar. We focused on whether and how the exposure to these interventions affected household food security through improvements in productivity and livelihoods. We used Propensity Score Matching to compare the performance of groups that were exposed to the intervention for one or two years, for seven impact variables. Exposure to the intervention had a positive effect for most impact variables, with differentiated effects among variables, group comparisons and regions. In terms of food security, beneficiaries had significantly higher dietary diversity (measured as the Food Consumption Score, FCS), but there were no significant differences for fish self-consumption (measured in kg/week). Longer exposure to the interventions produced significantly higher positive effects across most impact variables for the 2-year beneficiaries compared to 1-year beneficiaries and control groups. Our study suggests that the length of exposure to such interventions can be important in mediating the actual impact of small-scale aquaculture systems on household food security and livelihoods. Sustained help to small-scale producers should be considered in initiatives and development projects seeking to enhance the food security and rural development of small-scale aquaculture systems in Myanmar, and beyond.
The Chemistry Behind Biological Properties of Agro-industrial Portuguese By-Products
Authors: Ferreira Sara M. , Gomes Sandra M. , Santos Lúcia 
Published: December 2023

AbstractAs the global population grows, food production and processing generate significant by-products that cause environmental issues. These by-products contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which have beneficial biological properties. Extracting these compounds and incorporating them into various products, can promote circular economy. This study examined the correlation between the chemical composition and biological properties of phenolic-rich extracts from chestnut shells, grape seeds, onion peels, and passion fruit peels. Using HPLC–DAD, the primary compounds were identified and quantified. The study analysed their antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, sun protection factor, and α-amylase inhibitory capacity. Catechin was found in all four extracts, with the grapeseed extract having higher levels. Chestnut shell extract revealed the best antioxidant properties, with a total phenolic content of 497.5 mgGAE/g. On the other hand, onion peel extract exhibited the best antibacterial capacity, as well as the highest sun protection factor value (4.8). Concerning the ability to inhibit the α-amylase enzyme, all the extracts displayed the ability to inhibit more than 70% of this enzyme. Overall, the presented extracts had varying phenolic compositions and biological properties. It is crucial to evaluate the chemical composition of extracts to comprehend their biochemical properties and define their potential applications.
Graphical Abstract
Feasibility of mitigation measures for agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. A systematic review
Authors: Jebari Asma , Pereyra-Goday Fabiana , Kumar Atul , Collins Adrian L. , Rivero M. Jordana , McAuliffe Graham A. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe UK Government has set an ambitious target of achieving a national “net-zero” greenhouse gas economy by 2050. Agriculture is arguably placed at the heart of achieving net zero, as it plays a unique role as both a producer of GHG emissions and a sector that has the capacity via land use to capture carbon (C) when managed appropriately, thus reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. Agriculture’s importance, particularly in a UK-specific perspective, which is also applicable to many other temperate climate nations globally, is that the majority of land use nationwide is allocated to farming. Here, we present a systematic review based on peer-reviewed literature and relevant “grey” reports to address the question “how can the agricultural sector in the UK reduce, or offset, its direct agricultural emissions at the farm level?” We considered the implications of mitigation measures in terms of food security and import reliance, energy, environmental degradation, and value for money. We identified 52 relevant studies covering major foods produced and consumed in the UK. Our findings indicate that many mitigation measures can indeed contribute to net zero through GHG emissions reduction, offsetting, and bioenergy production, pending their uptake by farmers. While the environmental impacts of mitigation measures were covered well within the reviewed literature, corresponding implications regarding energy, food security, and farmer attitudes towards adoption received scant attention. We also provide an open-access, informative, and comprehensive dataset for agri-environment stakeholders and policymakers to identify the most promising mitigation measures. This research is of critical value to researchers, land managers, and policymakers as an interim guideline resource while more quantitative evidence becomes available through the ongoing lab-, field-, and farm-scale trials which will improve the reliability of agricultural sustainability modelling in the future.