bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Klassifizierung der Gewölbebrücken im Netz der Deutschen Bahn
Authors: Keßler Jenny , Pelka Conrad , Marx Steffen
Published: May 2024

Der Erhalt und der Gedanke des Weiterbauens sind elementare Bestandteile zielgerichteter Sanierungsmaßnahmen zur wesentlichen Verbesserung von Bestandstragwerken. Besonders die Brückenbauwerke im Netz der Deutschen Bahn (DB) und im Speziellen Eisenbahngewölbebrücken können durch ihre Resttragfähigkeit und aufgezeigte hohe Nutzungsdauer das Ziel der Weiternutzung positiv unterstützen. Für eine erfolgreiche Nutzungsdauerverlängerung und einen einheitlichen Umgang mit diesen Tragwerksformen ist es notwendig, die etwa 6000 Gewölbebrücken zu klassifizieren. Dies wurde für den Regionalbereich Südost, mit den meisten Gewölbebrücken im Netz der DB, und eine definierte Stichprobenmenge aus anderen Regionen anhand von Planmaterial sowie Regelbegutachtungen vorgenommen. Eine erste Kategorisierung erfolgte über das geometrische Verhältnis von Bogenstich f zu lichter Weite L des Gewölbes. Hier konnten drei f/L‐Verhältnisse mit passenden Wertebereichen gefunden werden, die für alle Regionalbereiche der DB zutreffend sind. Um daraus weiterführende Empfehlungen zu Untersuchungen in exponierten Bereichen der Gewölbestruktur zu geben, wurden die f/L‐Gruppen mit den aufgefundenen Schadensarten in den verschiedenen Gewölbebrückenbereichen verknüpft. So können außerdem zielgerichtete Sanierungsmethoden abgeleitet werden. Die Beanspruchungen können für Gewölbe vereinfacht über den Stützlinienverlauf im Bogen eingeschätzt werden.
Enhancing Aluminium‐Ion Battery Performance with Carbon Xerogel Cathodes
Authors: Almodóvar Paloma , Rey‐Raap Natalia , Flores‐López Samanta L. , Sotillo Belén , Santos Lara , Tinoco Miguel , Ramírez‐Castellanos Julio , Álvarez‐Serrano Inmaculada , López María Luisa , Cameán Ignacio , Arenillas Ana , Chacón Joaquín , García Ana B.
Published: May 2024

This study presents groundbreaking results in the field of rechargeable aluminium‐ion batteries, achieving stable capacities exceeding 300 mAh g−1 for more than 300 cycles. The key to this achievement lies in the utilization of tailor‐made carbon materials and a urea‐AlCl3‐based electrolyte. The article investigates the optimal physicochemical properties of the active material necessary for effective electrodes for these aluminium‐ion batteries. This investigation employs a wide range of materials characterization techniques (XRD, SEM‐EDX, N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms, Hg porosimetry, XPS, FTIR, Raman and TEM‐EDX) and electrochemical performance analyses to delve into the subject. These findings represent a significant improvement in the capacity of aluminium‐ion batteries, bringing us closer to their implementation and commercialization. This achievement is attributed to the utilization of readily available, cost‐effective, and non‐corrosive materials. The ability to customize carbon xerogels and the use of the urea‐AlCl3 electrolyte offer promising avenues for the practical implementation of these advanced battery technologies, leading to further enhancements in their performance and widespread adoption in various applications.
MOF‐Derived Porous Carbon for Zinc‐ion Hybrid Capacitors with Ultra‐High Energy Density and Long Cycling Life
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Wu Xiang , Luo Shaohua
Published: May 2024

Zinc‐ion hybrid capacitors (ZHC) have been considered as emerging sustainable electrochemical energy storage devices. They integrate the benefits of high‐energy density of aqueous zinc ion battery (ZIB) with high‐power density of supercapacitor (SC). Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been widely used to design electrode materials for portable devices, especially in some energy storage fields because of their large specific surface area and adjustable pore structures. In this work, we prepare porous Mn3O4/C nanosheets with Mn‐BDC as a precursor. The assembled device delivers a specific capacitance of 155.3 mAh g−1 at a current of 3 A g−1 and keeps a retention rate of 97.7 % after 10,000 cycles. Moreover, it provides an energy density of 464.5 Wh kg−l at a power density of 100 W kg−1.
Immobilization of an endophytic Bacillus sp. on Phragmites karka stem for lipase production in the presence of Cassia fistula seeds
Authors: Ashraf Maria M. , Sohail Muhammad , Abideen Zainul , Ali Syed Tariq , Alanazi Abdullah K.
Published: May 2024

Endophytic bacteria have not been reported widely for their lipolytic abilities, so they are not used for large‐scale lipase production. The purpose of this study was to explore an endophytic bacterium for the production of lipase implementing cost‐effective techniques, including the use of Cassia fistula seeds, as a substrate in the production medium and stem pieces of Phragmites karka as the immobilization matrix. The endophytic strain Bacillus sp. E4 was originally isolated from the halophytic plant Arthrocnemum macrostachyum. Bacillus sp. E4 produced 6.05 IU mL−1 lipase in the presence of powdered seeds of Cassia fistula (golden shower tree). Initial trial experiments using a one‐factor‐at‐a‐time approach led to an improvement in lipase titers to 10.05 IU mL−1. Consequently, investigations using the Plackett–Burman design suggested the influence of three significant factors – incubation period, inoculum size, and substrate concentration – on lipase production. They were optimized using the Box–Behnken design (BBD). In the response optimization experiment, strain E4 yielded 52.35 IU mL−1 lipase, which was in accordance with the predicted yield and indicated an overall 8.65 fold improvement in lipase production. To investigate the use of free cells, strain E4 was immobilized on the stem pieces of a halophytic plant, Phragmites karka, which was used for the first time as an immobilization matrix. The immobilized cells retained lipase production ability for up to six cycles with the highest yield of 110 IU mL−1, which corresponded to an improvement of more than eighteenfold. Scanning electron micrographs confirmed the colonization of E4 cells in the matrix and demonstrated the utilization of C. fistula seeds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy affirmed the utilization of components including fatty acids by the immobilized E4 cells. The study suggests that endophytic bacterial strains could be applied for the production of lipase with the utilization of nontraditional oil sources.
Ureteroenteric strictures after cystectomy: Side‐specific risk factors and radiological assessment
Authors: Brandt Simone Buchardt , Ibsen Lotte , Lam Gitte Wrist , Bøttcher Morten , Kingo Pernille Skjold , Jensen Jørgen Bjerggaard
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate risk factors contributing to side‐specific benign ureteroenteric strictures following radical cystectomy with an ileal conduit.

Materials and Methods

Data obtained from patients with bladder cancer who underwent radical cystectomy with ileal conduit surgery between 2015 and 2018 were retrospectively analysed. Imaging prior to surgery was analysed, regarding calcifications in the aorta, sarcopenia and postoperatively for length of remaining left ureter. Descriptive analyses were performed on preoperative and perioperative data, comparing patients who developed unilateral left‐ or right‐sided strictures, bilateral strictures, to those who remained free of strictures. COX regression analysis was employed to calculate crude and adjusted hazard ratio for side‐specific strictures.

Results

The study included 395 patients. Strictures developed in 19% (75/395) of the patients, within a median period of 9 months: 57% (43/75) unilateral left sided, 20% (15/75) unilateral right sided and 23% (17/75) bilateral. Unilateral left‐sided stricture was associated with higher body mass index (p = 0.077) and hypercholesterolemia (p = 0.007). Right‐sided stricture was associated with a history of prior abdominal surgery (p = 0.029) and postoperative leakage (p = 0.004). Bilateral stricture was associated with smoking (p = 0.006) and high BMI (p = 0.015). The adjusted HR comparing patients with and without previous abdominal surgery was only significantly higher for right‐sided ureteroenteric strictures (HR 3.18 [95% CI: 1.11; 9.05]) compared with patients without strictures. No association was identified between strictures and preoperative aortic calcification of the abdominal aorta or sarcopenia as estimated from imaging.

Conclusion

The aetiology of ureteroenteric strictures appears multifactorial. Our findings suggest that development of left‐sided stricture is influenced by factors associated with metabolic syndrome, indicating a potential role of distal ureteric ischemia. On the other hand, right‐sided stricture was more frequent in patients with previous abdominal surgery and postoperative leakage.
Neues DGZfP‐Merkblatt B14: Quantifizierung von Chlorid in Beton mittels LIBS
Authors: Völker Tobias , Gottlieb Cassian , Kapteina Gesa , Wilsch Gerd , Millar Steven , Reichling Kenji
Published: May 2024

Bei der Erhaltung von Stahlbetonbauwerken ist der Chloridgehalt im Beton ein wichtiger Parameter zur Festlegung geeigneter Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen. Die bisher etablierten Verfahren basieren auf der nasschemischen Analyse einer Probe, Bohrmehl oder aufgemahlener Segmente eines Bohrkerns. Das Verfahren liefert einen Chloridgehalt je Tiefensegment, was mit einer starken Homogenisierung der Probe einhergeht, wodurch detaillierte Informationen zu Chloridunterschieden im Millimeterbereich verloren gehen. Eine alternative Methode ist die laserinduzierte Plasmaspektroskopie (LIBS), die nicht nur die quantitative ortsaufgelöste Bestimmung des Chloridgehalts im Bezug zur Zementmasse ermöglicht, sondern auch simultan detaillierte Informationen über die Verteilung vieler anderer chemischer Elemente liefert. Die räumliche Auflösung liegt in der Regel im Bereich von einigen Millimetern, kann aber bei Bedarf auf 0,1 mm oder weniger erhöht werden. Das neue Merkblatt B14 „Quantifizierung von Chlorid in Beton mit der laserinduzierten Plasmaspektroskopie (LIBS)“ der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Zerstörungsfreie Prüfungen (DGZfP) regelt und vereinheitlicht erstmals die zuverlässige und reproduzierbare Ermittlung des Chloridgehalts mit LIBS. In diesem Beitrag wird das Merkblatt vorgestellt und anhand praktischer Anwendungsbeispiele das Potenzial von LIBS für Fragestellungen in der Betonerhaltung verdeutlicht.
Flavin‐containing monooxygenase (FMO): Beyond xenobiotics
Authors: Bhat Ajay , Carranza Faith R. , Tuckowski Angela M. , Leiser Scott F.
Published: May 2024

Flavin‐containing monooxygenases (FMOs), traditionally known for detoxifying xenobiotics, are now recognized for their involvement in endogenous metabolism. We recently discovered that an isoform of FMO, fmo‐2 in Caenorhabditis elegans, alters endogenous metabolism to impact longevity and stress tolerance. Increased expression of fmo‐2 in C. elegans modifies the flux through the key pathway known as One Carbon Metabolism (OCM). This modified flux results in a decrease in the ratio of S‐adenosyl‐methionine (SAM) to S‐adenosyl‐homocysteine (SAH), consequently diminishing methylation capacity. Here we discuss how FMO‐2‐mediated formate production during tryptophan metabolism may serve as a trigger for changing the flux in OCM. We suggest formate bridges tryptophan and OCM, altering metabolic flux away from methylation during fmo‐2 overexpression. Additionally, we highlight how these metabolic results intersect with the mTOR and AMPK pathways, in addition to mitochondrial metabolism. In conclusion, the goal of this essay is to bring attention to the central role of FMO enzymes but lack of understanding of their mechanisms. We justify a call for a deeper understanding of FMO enzyme's role in metabolic rewiring through tryptophan/formate or other yet unidentified substrates. Additionally, we emphasize the identification of novel drugs and microbes to induce FMO activity and extend lifespan.
Recent insights from human induced pluripotent stem cell models into the role of microglia in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Nikel Lara M. , Talbot Kevin , Vahsen Björn F.
Published: May 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease, primarily leading to the degeneration of motor neurons. The traditional focus on motor neuron‐centric mechanisms has recently shifted towards understanding the contribution of non‐neuronal cells, such as microglia, in ALS pathophysiology. Advances in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology have enabled the generation of iPSC‐derived microglia monocultures and co‐cultures to investigate their role in ALS pathogenesis. Here, we briefly review the insights gained from these studies into the role of microglia in ALS. While iPSC‐derived microglia monocultures have revealed intrinsic cellular dysfunction due to ALS‐associated mutations, microglia‐motor neuron co‐culture studies have demonstrated neurotoxic effects of mutant microglia on motor neurons. Based on these findings, we briefly discuss currently unresolved questions and how they could be addressed in future studies. iPSC models hold promise for uncovering disease‐relevant pathways in ALS and identifying potential therapeutic targets.
Higher efficiency of vanadate iron in heterogeneous Fenton‐like systems to pretreat sugarcane bagasse and its enzymatic saccharification
Authors: Liang Ju , Zeng Huiying , Zhang Yuting , Zhou Wenbing , Xiao Naidong
Published: May 2024

Pretreatment is crucial for effective enzymatic saccharification of lignocellulose such as sugarcane bagasse (SCB). In the present study, SCB was pretreated with five kinds of heterogeneous Fenton‐like systems (HFSs), respectively, in which α‐FeOOH, α‐Fe2O3, Fe3O4, and FeS2 worked as four traditional heterogeneous Fenton‐like catalysts (HFCs), while FeVO4 worked as a novel HFC. The enzymatic reducing sugar conversion rate was then compared among SCB after different heterogeneous Fenton‐like pretreatments (HFPs), and the optimal HFS and pretreatment conditions were determined. The mechanism underlying the difference in saccharification efficiency was elucidated by analyzing the composition and morphology of SCB. Moreover, the ion dissolution characteristics, variation of pH and Eh values, H2O2 and hydroxyl radical (·OH) concentration of FeVO4 and α‐Fe2O3 HFSs were compared. The results revealed that the sugar conversion rate of SCB pretreated with FeVO4 HFS reached up to 58.25%, which was obviously higher than that under other HFPs. In addition, the surface morphology and composition of the pretreated SCB with FeVO4 HFS were more conducive to enzymatic saccharification. Compared with α‐Fe2O3, FeVO4 could utilize H2O2 more efficiently, since the dissolved Fe3+ and V5+ can both react with H2O2 to produce more ·OH, resulting in a higher hemicellulose and lignin removal rate and a higher enzymatic sugar conversion rate. It can be concluded that FeVO4 HFP is a promising approach for lignocellulose pretreatment.
Pluralistic psychotherapists' and counsellors' experiences of working with actively suicidal clients: A qualitative interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Muckley Leo
Published: May 2024

Background

Clients presenting as suicidal have been widely recognised as one of the most challenging presenting issues for psychotherapists and counsellors. There is a wealth of literature exploring risk assessment, collaboration, goals, tasks, methods, shared decision making and client preferences employed in therapy with this presenting issue. Yet, no literature explicitly explores combining these approaches or provides a framework that integrates them. Working with actively suicidal clients as a pluralistic psychotherapist and counsellor (PCP) has not been thoroughly examined to date, even though this framework and philosophy for therapy combines many of the aforementioned approaches. Therefore, it is imperative that ways of working safely with this presenting issue, for both the client and the practitioner, are explored and researched through the lens of PCP.

Objective

To interpret and explore pluralistic psychotherapists' and counsellors' experiences of working with actively suicidal clients to find what might be added to the body of knowledge.

Methods

A qualitative interpretative phenomenological analysis of PCP with actively suicidal clients was conducted via four semi‐structured recorded interviews. Four participants were recruited purposively. Four themes and two subthemes were identified and explored.

Discussion

The findings showed PCP to be a robust holistic approach to actively suicidal clients that is safe for both client and practitioner. Furthermore, the results point towards the need for further research into the idea that PCP is useful when working with actively suicidal clients in line with recommended best practice from the client's perspective.
Current alternatives to traditional radial approach for coronary interventions: A randomized prospective study of the ulnar and distal radial approaches
Authors: Elwany Moustafa , Dawood Moustafa , Shakhlab Alaa , Sadaka Mohamed , Sobhy Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Background

The radial artery is the standard access for coronary intervention; however, it is essential to have alternative accesses as it may be used as a conduit during coronary artery bypass grafting or for dialysis fistula. Ulnar and distal radial artery accesses have emerged as alternative accesses for traditional radial artery.

Aim

To compare distal radial artery access and ulnar artery access as alternatives to traditional radial artery access regarding safety, efficacy, and success rate.

Methods

Two‐hundred patients were included (100 traditional radial [TRA], 50 distal radial [DRA] and 50 ulnar). Access artery follow up ultrasound was performed up to 28 days.

Results

Procedural success rate was 97%, 74%, and 92% in the TRA, DRA and ulnar groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Crossover occurred in 3 patients (3%) in TRA, 13 patients (26%) in DRA and 4 cases (8%) in ulnar group (p < 0.001). The most common cause of crossover was failure of artery cannulation. Regarding cannulation time, the mean access time in seconds was 80.19 ± 25.98, 148.4 ± 29.60, 90.5 ± 21.84 in TRA, DRA and ulnar groups, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study concluded that these new approaches proved to be potential alternatives to traditional radial approach; however, ulnar artery access proved to be superior to distal radial artery access as regards success rate and cannulation time.
Special Collection: Holistic Development of Electrochemical Processes for Industrial Systems
Authors: Segets Doris , Apfel Ulf‐Peter
Published: May 2024

This special collection is dedicated to the field of application‐oriented electrochemical processes and contains a diverse selection of original research contributions in this field. It reaches from a fundamental electrochemical understanding, over catalyst material development, to engineering technology. With this Special Collection key factors in energy transition processes are highlighted and emerging research topics to enable scale‐up from lab‐based fundamental research to industrial‐level system integration are showcased.
Ionic Porous Aromatic Frameworks Embedding Polyoxometalates for Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Zhang Zhaofu , Zhai Yuhui , Gu Mengnan , Lei Hengtao , Li Yunxuan , Li Yue , Tian Yuyang , Zhu Guangshan
Published: May 2024

Porous aromatic frameworks (PAFs) are highly promising functional porous solids known for their feasible amenability and extraordinary stability. When the framework was modified by ionic functional groups, these ionic PAFs (iPAFs) exhibited charged channels for adsorption, separation, and catalysis. However, the surface areas of ionic porous frameworks are usually lower than that of neutral frameworks, and their synthesis is limited by specific strategies and complex modification processes. To address these challenges, an intuitive route to construct ionic porous framework with high specific surface area was proposed. Herein, a multivariate ionic porous aromatic framework (MTV‐iPAFs, named PAF‐270) was synthesized using readily available building units with ionic functional groups through a multivariable synthesis strategy. PAF‐270 exhibited hierarchical structure with the highest specific surface area among reported imidazolium‐functionalized PAFs. Utilizing its physical and chemical properties, the availability for polyoxometalate loading and heterogeneous catalysis of PAF‐270 were explored. PAF‐270 exhibited a high adsorption capacity up to 50 % for both H3O40PW12 (HPW) and (NH4)5H6PV8Mo4O40 (V8). HPW@PAF‐270 and V8@PAF‐270 exhibited excellent catalytic abilities for oleic acid esterification and extractive oxidative desulfurization, respectively. Due to the stability of PAFs, these materials also showed remarkable resistance to temperature and pH changes. Overall, these results underscore the potential application of MTV‐iPAFs as versatile functional porous materials.
Reassignment of the Structure of a Tryptophan‐Containing Cyclic Tripeptide Produced by the Biarylitide Crosslinking Cytochrome P450blt
Authors: Coe Laura J. , Zhao Yongwei , Padva Leo , Keto Angus , Schittenhelm Ralf , Tailhades Julien , Pierens Greg , Krenske Elizabeth H. , Crüsemann Max , De Voss James J. , Cryle Max J.
Published: May 2024

The structure of the sidechain crosslinked Tyr‐Leu‐Trp peptide produced by the biarylitide crosslinking cytochrome P450Blt from Micromonospora sp. MW‐13 has been reanalysed by a series of NMR, computational and isotope labelling experiments and shown to contain a C−N rather than a C−O bond. Additional in vivo experiments using such a modified peptide show there is a general tolerance of biarylitide crosslinking P450 enzymes for histidine to tryptophan mutations within their minimal peptide substrate sequences despite the lack of such residues noted in natural biarylitide gene clusters. This work further highlights the impressive ability of P450s from biarylitide biosynthesis pathways to act as biocatalysts for the formation of a range of sidechain crosslinked tripeptides.
Stable Axially Chiral Cyclohexylidenes from Catalytic Asymmetric Knoevenagel Condensation
Authors: Ying Meijia , Wang Kaixuan , Yan Wenjun , Pu Maoping , Lin Lili
Published: May 2024

Axially chiral cycloalkylidenes are interesting but less developed axially chiral molecules. Here, a bispidine‐based chiral amine catalytic system was developed to promote efficiently the asymmetric Knoevenagel condensation of N‐protected oxindoles and benzofuranones with 4‐substituted cyclohexanones. A variety of alkylidenecycloalkanes with stable axial chirality were obtained in good yields and fairly good er (enantiomeric ratio). Based on the absolute configuration determination of product and DFT calculations, a possible mechanism of stereoselective induction was proposed.
Out of the Dark, into the Light: Metabolic Fluorescent Labeling of Nucleic Acids
Authors: Knaack J. Iven H. , Meier Chris
Published: May 2024

This review outlines recent advances in live‐cell imaging techniques for nucleic acids. We describe the evolution of these methods, particularly highlighting the development of metabolic labeling approaches compatible with living systems using fluorescence‐based labeling.
An Exploration of Cysteamine as a Subphase Additive for the Fabrication of Uniform Gold Nanorod Arrays using Langmuir‐Blodgett Deposition
Authors: Albarghouthi N. , Chotoye S. A. B. , Brosseau C. L.
Published: May 2024

Gold nanorods (AuNRs) have attracted significant attention over the past several decades for a variety of applications and there has been steady progress with regards to their synthesis and modification. Despite these advances, the assembly of AuNRs into well‐organized hierarchical assemblies remains a formidable challenge. Specifically, there is a need for tools that can fabricate assemblies of nanorods over large length scales at low cost with the potential for high‐throughput manufacturing. Langmuir‐Blodgettry is a monolayer deposition technique which has been primarily applied to amphiphilic molecules, but which has recently shown promise for the ordering of functionalized nanoparticles residing at the air‐water interface. In this work, Langmuir‐Blodgett deposition is explored for the formation of AuNR arrays for enhanced surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) sensing. In particular, both surface modification of the AuNRs as well as subphase modification with cysteamine were evaluated for AuNR array fabrication.
An NMR Toolkit to Probe Amyloid Oligomer Inhibition in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Ligand Screening to Dissecting Binding Topology and Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Palmioli Alessandro , Airoldi Cristina
Published: May 2024

The aggregation of amyloid peptides and proteins into toxic oligomers is a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Machado‐Joseph's disease, and transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. Inhibition of amyloid oligomers formation and interactions with biological counterparts, as well as the triggering of non‐toxic amorphous aggregates, are strategies towards preventive interventions against these pathologies. NMR spectroscopy addresses the need for structural characterization of amyloid proteins and their aggregates, their binding to inhibitors, and rapid screening of compound libraries for ligand identification. Here we briefly discuss the solution experiments constituting the NMR spectroscopist‘s toolkit and provide examples of their application.
Investigation of Crystallographic, Morphological, Magnetic and Electrochemical Properties of La‐Doped Cu‐CoFe2O4 Spinel Ferrites
Authors: Khan Mohd Rouf , Mahajan Hamnesh , Srivastava A. K.
Published: May 2024

This research presents the successful synthesis of Cu0.79Co0.21LaxFe2‐xO4 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.8) (spinel ferrite) nanoparticles via the sol‐gel auto combustion technique, with varying La3+ dopant concentrations. In this study, the estimated crystallite size (D) is found to be in the range of (27.92–40.90) nm. The microstructural parameter determination in XRD data is improved using Rietveld refinement. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra exhibit two distinct metal stretching vibrational bands within (400–600) cm−1 range, a characteristic fingerprint region for all ferrites. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) analysis reveals the agglomeration of particles due to magnetic interactions and non‐uniform distribution of average particle sizes ranging from (1.06–1.87) µm. Energy Dispersive X‐Ray Analysis (EDX) validates the chemical composition's accuracy. Owing to the dilution effect resulting from the introduction of non‐magnetic La3+ ions into the ferrite structure, there is a reduction in the saturation magnetization value, decreasing from 37.28 to 6.24 emu g−1 in the Vibrating Sample Magnetometery (VSM) study. The electrochemical analysis reveals the impressive electrochemical characteristics of the newly developed ferrites, highlighting a remarkable specific capacitance of 270.0 F g−1. This finding positions them as highly promising contenders for a wide range of energy storage supercapacitor applications.
Maximizing CSR impact: Leveraging artificial intelligence and process optimization for sustainability performance management
Authors: Khan Ali Nawaz , Mehmood Khalid , Ali Ahsan
Published: May 2024

This study, which is anchored to Resource‐Based View (RBV) theory, explores the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI), process optimization, organizational flexibility, and sustainability performance in organizational settings. Leveraging the RBV framework's focus on internal resources as sources of competitive advantage, this research seeks to clarify how AI adoption, process optimization, and organizational flexibility foster sustainable growth. SPSS PROCESS Macro was used to analyze the data from 288 organizations. The findings derived from the empirical data, this study verify the positive relationships between AI and process optimization as well as AI and sustainability performance, revealing the strategic nature of AI as a resource to improve operational effectiveness and environmental responsibility. Further, our results indicate the mediating role of process optimization and the moderating effect of organizational flexibility in determining the link between AI and sustainability outcomes. Moreover, results confirmed the indirect effects of AI on sustainability performance via process optimization under the boundary conditions of the organizational flexibility. These findings add to the developing literature of sustainable operational practices and provide practical suggestions that might be useful for the practitioners aiming at using AI driven by organizational capabilities to deliver sustainability performance.
In Situ Spectroelectrochemical Study of Acetate Formation by CO2 Reduction Using Bi Catalyst in Amine‐Based Capture Solution
Authors: Bohlen Barbara , Daems Nick , Su Zhangfei , Chen Aicheng , Lipkowski Jacek , Breugelmans Tom
Published: May 2024

Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) are technologies sought to reduce the level of CO2 in the atmosphere. Industrial carbon capture is associated with energetic penalty, thus there is an opportunity to research alternatives. In this work, spectroelectrochemistry was used to analyze the electrochemical CO2 reduction (eCO2R) in CO2 saturated monoethanolamine (MEA)‐based capture solutions, in a novel CCU process. The in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy experiments show that at the Bi catalyst, the active species involved in the eCO2R is the dissolved CO2 in solution, and not carbamate. In addition, the products of eCO2R were evaluated under flow, using commercial Bi2O3 NP as catalyst. Formate and acetate were detected, with normalized FE for acetate up to 14.5 %, a remarkable result, considering the catalyst used. Acetate is formed either in the presence of cetrimonium bromide (CTAB) as surfactant or at higher current density (>−100 mA cm−2) and the results enabled the proposition of a pathway for its production. This work sheds light on the complex reaction environment of a capture medium electrolyte and is thus relevant for an improved understanding of the conversion of CO2 into value‐added products and to evaluate the feasibility of a combined CCU approach.
Cathodic Conversion of Pressurized CO2 at Silver Cathodes: What are the Optimal Values of Pressure and Current Density?
Authors: Proietto Federica , Cammisa Giuseppe , Contino Mario , Inguanta Rosalinda , Galia Alessandro , Scialdone Onofrio
Published: May 2024

The cathodic reduction of pressurized CO2 (PrCO2CR) at suitable cathodes can allow to produce various chemicals, such as formic acid/formate (FA) and carbon monoxide or synthesis gas, with high faradic efficiencies (FEs) and productivities. Here, we have performed the conversion of CO2 in an undivided pressurized electrochemical reactor using silver cathode in order to determine the optimal values of CO2 pressure and current density. It was found that the plot FE vs. pressure resulted in a curve with a maximum. Similarly, an optimal value of current density can be selected for the PrCO2CR. The competition between the production of carbon monoxide and formic acid/formate is strongly affected by both the pressure and the current density. Eventually the effect of pressure and current density on the economic figures of the process was evaluated.
Cytopathology in the era of social media
Authors: Baskota Swikrity , Shaker Nada , Balassanian Ronald , Vohra Poonam
Published: May 2024

In today's medical landscape, social media (SoMe) platforms have expanded their reach beyond mere communication and entertainment, making a significant impact in the pathology field, including cytopathology. In recent years, SoMe platforms have become increasingly adopted by cytopathologists, facilitating continued education, professional networking, enhancing patient engagement, and entertainment. This adoption has influenced the professional growth of cytopathologists, and at its best, has led to the establishment of a robust professional online presence and ultimately contributed to leadership positions, fellowship opportunities, and academic promotions. Moreover, the integration of SoMe into the academic field has shown a profound impact on the visibility of academic journals and has provided a platform for lower‐impact factor journals to expand their reach, ultimately increasing article citation rates and positively contributing to journal impact factor growth. SoMe platforms created a modern avenue for conference networking that has revolutionized knowledge dissemination and enhanced real‐time engagement. The advantages of SoMe have extended to a global scale, positively enhancing professional expertise sharing, facilitating effective communication and teleconsultation worldwide, and reaching developing countries. Drawing insights from the recent medical literature and the practical insight from the experts' personal experience, this article provides a comprehensive review of how SoMe and cytopathology intersect to create new opportunities, facilitating informed discussions, global collaboration, and advancements in the field of cytopathology. This article also delves into the challenges surrounding SoMe platform navigation and addresses ethical and regulatory concerns, providing guidelines on what to post and what not to post on SoMe platforms.
Immunoglobulin G4 ‐related gastrointestinal disease associated with type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis: A case report
Authors: Sato Shingo , Kasai Toyotaka , Eto Hiroyuki , Okamoto Shikiko , Nagashima Ariki , Ushiyama Rui , Shimazaki Reiri , Nitta Hiroshi , Arai Motonori , Ito Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)‐related diseaseis a systemic inflammatory condition of unknown etiology characterized by increases in serum IgG4 and in the number of IgG4‐positive cells in affected tissues. One of the commonly involved locations is the pancreas; this condition is known as type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP). Type 1 AIP, which shows a biliary stricture in the intrapancreatic bile duct, can be misdiagnosed as a malignancy due to similar cholangiography findings and clinical presentation. In rare cases complicated by post‐bulbar duodenal ulcers, differentiating between type 1 AIP and malignancies is even more difficult. An 81‐year‐old male was referred to our hospital for the treatment of a pancreatic head mass and obstructive jaundice. Serological and radiological findings were consistent with both type 1 AIP and a malignancy. Gastroduodenoscopy revealed a post‐bulbar duodenal ulcer with endoscopic features that evoked malignant duodenal invasion. Although biopsies were negative for malignant cells, subsequent bleeding from the lesion suggested the progression of malignancy, which led to surgical resection. Pancreatoduodenectomy and pathological examination indicated that type 1 AIP was present. Simultaneously, the involvement of IgG4‐related disease in the ulcerative lesion was suggested. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of type 1 AIP complicated by post‐bulbar duodenal ulcers, which was misdiagnosed as malignancy and considered an IgG4‐related gastrointestinal disease associated with type 1 AIP.
Trophic position determines the persistence of neotropical understory birds after forest disturbance
Authors: Paces Bernhard , Wanek Wolfgang , Voigt Christian C. , Schirmer Saskia , Leidinger Paulus , Schulze Christian H.
Published: May 2024

Habitat loss and degradation are key drivers of the current biodiversity crisis. Most research focuses on the question of which traits allow species to persist in degraded habitats. We asked whether a species' trophic position or niche width influences the resilience of species in degraded habitats and to what extent habitat degradation affects trophic interactions between species. We used nitrogen isotope ratios (15N:14N, expressed as δ15N value) to quantify and compare trophic positions and niche widths of understory birds inhabiting old‐growth and young secondary forests in the Pacific lowlands of Costa Rica. We found that a species' trophic position rather than its trophic niche width determined its persistence in secondary forests. Species feeding at lower trophic levels in old‐growth forests were less likely to persist in secondary forests than those occupying a higher trophic position in old‐growth forests. This pattern is likely induced by the occurrence of relatively large‐bodied habitat specialists with a flexible and high‐trophic level diet in secondary forests. These habitat specialists likely caused generalist bird species to lower their trophic position relative to conspecifics in old‐growth forests. Regarding trophic niche widths, species in secondary forests tend to have larger niche widths than old‐growth forest species. However, as old‐growth forest specialists and generalists did not differ in their niche widths, no systematic effect of trophic niche width on species persistence after forest disturbance was found. This is the first study that shows a systematic effect of trophic position on the persistence of a wide range of bird species in a disturbed forest ecosystem. It therefore provides important insights into species' responses to habitat degradation and the conservation value of secondary forests. To improve habitat quality for old‐growth forest birds and facilitate avian seed dispersal, the creation of large contiguous forest patches should be prioritised when implementing reforestation measures.
Comparison of qPCR and metabarcoding for environmental DNA surveillance of a freshwater parasite
Authors: Johnson Mark , Tetzlaff Sasha , Katz Aron , Sperry Jinelle
Published: May 2024

Analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) has been successfully used across freshwater ecological parasitology to inform management of ecologically and economically important species. However, most studies have used species‐specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays to detect target taxa. While generally effective, this approach limits the amount of community and management‐supporting data that can be obtained from eDNA samples. If eDNA metabarcoding could be conducted with the same accuracy of a single species approach, researchers could simultaneously detect a target species while obtaining vast community data from eDNA samples. We sampled 38 freshwater sites on Fort McCoy, Wisconsin and compared qPCR to metabarcoding for eDNA detection of the ectoparasitic gill louse Salmincola edwardsii, an obligate parasite of Salvelinus fishes (chars). We found no evidence to suggest S. edwardsii occupancy or detection probabilities differed between qPCR and metabarcoding. Further, we found that the number of S. edwardsii reads from metabarcoding were negatively predictive of CT values from qPCR (CT value indicates cycle a significant amount of target eDNA is detected, with lower CTs indicative of more DNA), demonstrating that our metabarcoding reads positively predicted qPCR DNA quantities. However, the number of reads was not predictive of overall qPCR score (number of positive qPCR replicates). In addition to S. edwardsii, metabarcoding led to the detection of a vast community of over 2600 invertebrate taxa. We underscore the necessity for conducting similar analyses across environments and target species, as the ecology of eDNA will vary on a per‐study basis. Our results suggest that eDNA metabarcoding provides a highly sensitive and accurate method for detecting parasitic gill lice while also illuminating the broader biological community and co‐occurrence of species in the environment.
Linking aerial hyperspectral data to canopy tree biodiversity: An examination of the spectral variation hypothesis
Authors: Crofts Anna L. , Wallis Christine I. B. , St‐Jean Sabine , Demers‐Thibeault Sabrina , Inamdar Deep , Arroyo‐Mora J. Pablo , Kalacska Margaret , Laliberté Etienne , Vellend Mark
Published: May 2024

Imaging spectroscopy is emerging as a leading remote sensing method for quantifying plant biodiversity. The spectral variation hypothesis predicts that variation in plant hyperspectral reflectance is related to variation in taxonomic and functional identity. While most studies report some correlation between spectral and field‐based (i.e., taxonomic and functional) expressions of biodiversity, the observed strength of association is highly variable, and the utility in applying spectral community properties to examine environmental drivers of communities remains unknown. We linked hyperspectral data acquired by airborne imaging spectrometers with precisely geolocated field plots to examine the spectral variation hypothesis along a temperate‐to‐boreal forest gradient in southern Québec, Canada. First, we examine the degree of association between spectral and field‐based dimensions of canopy tree composition and diversity. Second, we ask whether the relationships between field‐based community properties and the environment are reproduced when using spectral community properties. We found support for the spectral variation hypothesis with the strength of association generally greater for the functional than taxonomic dimension, but the strength of relationships was highly variable and dependent on the choice of method or metric used to quantify spectral and field‐based community properties. Using a multivariate approach (comparisons of separate ordinations), spectral composition was moderately well correlated with field‐based composition; however, the degree of association increased when univariately relating the main axes of compositional variation. Spectral diversity was most tightly associated with functional diversity metrics that quantify functional richness and divergence. For predicting canopy tree composition and diversity using environmental variables, the same qualitative conclusions emerge when hyperspectral or field‐based data are used. Spatial patterns of canopy tree community properties were strongly related to the turnover from temperate‐to‐boreal communities, with most variation explained by elevation. Spectral composition and diversity provide a straightforward way to quantify plant biodiversity across large spatial extents without the need for a priori field observations. While commonly framed as a potential tool for biodiversity monitoring, we show that spectral community properties can be applied more widely to assess the environmental drivers of biodiversity, thereby helping to advance our understanding of the drivers of biogeographical patterns of plant communities.
Primer set evaluation and sampling method assessment for the monitoring of fish communities in the North‐western part of the Mediterranean Sea through eDNA metabarcoding
Authors: Roblet Sylvain , Priouzeau Fabrice , Gambini Gilles , Dérijard Benoit , Sabourault Cécile
Published: May 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding appears to be a promising tool to survey fish communities. However, the effectiveness of this method relies on primer set performance and on a robust sampling strategy. While some studies have evaluated the efficiency of several primers for fish detection, it has not yet been assessed in situ for the Mediterranean Sea. In addition, mainly surface waters were sampled and no filter porosity testing was performed. In this pilot study, our aim was to evaluate the ability of six primer sets, targeting 12S rRNA (AcMDB07; MiFish; Tele04) or 16S rRNA (Fish16S; Fish16SFD; Vert16S) loci, to detect fish species in the Mediterranean Sea using a metabarcoding approach. We also assessed the influence of sampling depth and filter pore size (0.45 μm versus 5 μm filters). To achieve this, we developed a novel sampling strategy allowing simultaneous surface and bottom on‐site filtration of large water volumes along the same transect. We found that 16S rRNA primer sets enabled more fish taxa to be detected across each taxonomic level. The best combination was Fish16S/Vert16S/AcMDB07, which recovered 95% of the 97 fish species detected in our study. There were highly significant differences in species composition between surface and bottom samples. Filters of 0.45 μm led to the detection of significantly more fish species. Therefore, to maximize fish detection in the studied area, we recommend to filter both surface and bottom waters through 0.45 μm filters and to use a combination of these three primer sets.
Nanopore environmental DNA sequencing of catch water for estimating species composition in demersal bottom trawl fisheries
Authors: Maggini Sara , Jacobsen Magnus Wulff , Urban Paulina , Hansen Brian Klitgaard , Kielgast Jos , Bekkevold Dorte , Jardim Ernesto , Martinsohn Jann T. , Carvalho Gary R. , Nielsen Einar E. , Papadopulos Alexander S. T.
Published: May 2024

Bycatch and discards, representing unwanted catches, undermine sustainable fisheries and hinder the conservation of vulnerable and endangered species. To effectively monitor bycatch and enhance the effectiveness of management measures while promoting sustainable fishing practices, reliable data is essential. Here, we explore the use of Nanopore metabarcoding to analyze the catch composition in demersal bottom fisheries. We collected eDNA samples directly from an onboard catch holding tank (catch water) for 10 fishing hauls from a fishing vessel operating in the Skagerrak (North‐East Atlantic). The approach involved sequencing a combination of long (~2 kb) and short (~170–313 bp) mitochondrial amplicons and was validated by analyzing a fishery‐related mock community sample and fishing haul replicates. Overall, the detection rate accuracy was 95% for landed species, and replicates obtained from the same fishing haul showed consistent results, validating the robustness of this approach. The detection rate accuracy for all caught species observed on board (including the non‐landed fraction) was 81%. Undetected species were always limited to species in low abundance, but may also be attributed to problems with identifying closely related species due to the impact of sequencing errors and limited diagnostic variation in the genetic regions used. In the future, such biases may be reduced by using additional markers to increase species discrimination power and applying newly available technological advantages in flow cell chemistry to improve sequencing accuracy. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of Nanopore eDNA sequencing of catch water for estimating species composition in demersal bottom trawl fisheries, including catches of non‐commercial and threatened and vulnerable species, without disrupting fishing activities. Incorporating eDNA analysis of catch water may therefore help facilitate effective monitoring, leading to better‐informed fisheries management, biodiversity conservation efforts, and the implementation of relevant legislation such as the EU landing obligation.