bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Preparation and properties of triphenyl octylphosphonium bromide‐modified vermiculite and its PBAT composite films
Authors: Zhan Xiao , Shang Xiaoyu , Zhou Teng , Zhang Daohai , Qin Shuhao 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAs living standards improve, there is a growing demand for fresher, healthier and more sustainable food options, with a concomitant challenge to develop new biodegradable packaging. This investigation centres around the synthesis of quaternary phosphonium salt (triphenyl octylphosphonium bromide P8) and use it to modify vermiculite (VMT). The structure of P8 was determined using both NMR and FTIR. The structural investigation and performance analysis of P8‐modified vermiculite (P8@VMT) were carried out by particle size, XRD, FTIR and microstructure. In addition, P8@VMT/PBAT composite films were prepared by solution method using PBAT as matrix material and P8@VMT as filler. The properties of P8@VMT/PBAT composite films were compared to those of pure PBAT films using TGA, DSC, SEM, and antibacterial tests. Results showed that the melting and crystallization temperatures of P8@VMT/PBAT composite films were higher than those of pure PBAT films. However, increasing the content of P8@VMT led to a decrease in thermal stability as well as melting enthalpy, crystallization enthalpy, and crystallinity. On the other hand, loss modulus, storage modulus, and complex viscosity significantly increased with the addition of P8@VMT. Compared to pure PBAT film, P8@VMT/PBAT‐20% composites exhibited a 19.6% reduction in tensile strength and a 94.7% decrease in elongation at break due to the presence of quaternary phosphonium salt (P8) used as a modifier for VMT during melt blending method preparation.Highlights
Quaternary phosphonium salt P8 was successfully synthesized.
PBAT/P8@VMT composite films with different P8@VMT were prepared.
P8@VMT improves compatibility between VMT and PBAT.
PBAT/P8@VMT composite films have antimicrobial effects.
The PBAT/P8@VMT composite films are biodegradable.
Multi‐objective optimization of 3D printing process parameters using gray‐based Taguchi for composite PLA parts
Authors: Tunçel Oğuz , Tüfekci Kenan , Kahya Çağlar 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the additive manufacturing (AM) process of 30% ceramic‐reinforced composite PLA material using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique. The effects of various printing parameters on tensile strength, build time, and material consumption are comprehensively analyzed through a combination of the Taguchi method, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and gray relational analysis (GRA). Experimental design parameters include nozzle diameter, infill density, infill pattern, wall line count, print speed, and layer height. Statistical analyses reveal significant contributions of these parameters to mechanical properties and production efficiency. Single and multi‐objective optimizations of the responses were performed. The single optimization resulted in a significant increase in tensile strength from 39.9 to 48.10 MPa. Production time was reduced from 16 to 9 min; material consumption decreased from 4.95 to 2.43 g for tensile test specimens. The use of GRA in multi‐objective optimization has led to a significant improvement of 8.31% in the gray relational grade (GRG) when compared to the initial parameter settings. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing FDM processes in the fabrication of composite PLA materials. This contributes towards the advancement of additive manufacturing technology and its applications across various industries. and its applications across various industries.Highlights
Tensile strength increased while reducing build time and material consumption.
Optimal printing parameters were identified for a composite PLA material.
Layer height and nozzle diameter were effective parameters.
Alternative splicing of the conserved drug‐resistant orthologue FpNcb2 is associated with its nuclear accumulation of products and full virulence of Fusarium pseudograminearum
Authors: Zhao Peiyi , Peng Mengya , Zhang Shiyu , Dong Zaifang , Liu Min , Xing Xiaoping , Shi Yan , Li Honglian , Chen Linlin 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDNegative cofactor 2 NC2β (Ncb2 or Dr1) is the beta subunit of a conserved heterodimeric regulator of transcription negative cofactor 2 (NC2) complex that has been identified as key regulator of drug resistance in model fungi. However, its role in plant pathogens is still unclear.RESULTSWe identified an NC2β orthologue, FpNcb2, in Fusarium pseudograminearum, which is not only a significant regulatory function in drug resistance, but also essential for growth, conidiation and penetration. Moreover, FpNcb2 undergoes alternative splicing which creates two mRNA isoforms. As a putative CCAAT binding protein, FpNcb2 concentrates in the nuclei, contributing to the expression of two spliced mRNA of FpNcb2 in hypha, conidiophores and conidia, with exception of FpNcb2ISOA in germlings. Expression of each spliced mRNA of FpNcb2 in Δfpncb2 mutant could full complement the defects on growth, conidiation and fungicides sensitivity to that of wild type. However, FpNcb2ISOA and FpNcb2ISOB have different effects on virulence. FpNcb2 acts as a regulator for the transcription of some genes encoding drug efflux and hydrolases.CONCLUSIONOur analysis showed the existence of alternative mRNA splicing in the NC2β orthologue, which is associated with protein subcellular localization and fungal virulence. The further elucidation of the target genes of NC2β will provide insights into the potential regulation mechanisms in the antifungal resistance and pathogenesis of F. pseudograminearum. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A belowground perspective on the nexus between biodiversity change, climate change, and human well‐being
Authors: Eisenhauer Nico , Frank Karin , Weigelt Alexandra , Bartkowski Bartosz , Beugnon Rémy , Liebal Katja , Mahecha Miguel , Quaas Martin , Al‐Halbouni Djamil , Bastos Ana , Bohn Friedrich J. , de Brito Mariana Madruga , Denzler Joachim , Feilhauer Hannes , Fischer Rico , Fritsche Immo , Guimaraes‐Steinicke Claudia , Hänsel Martin , Haun Daniel B. M. , Herrmann Hartmut , Huth Andreas , Kalesse‐Los Heike , Koetter Michael , Kolleck Nina , Krause Melanie , Kretschmer Marlene , Leitão Pedro J. , Masson Torsten , Mora Karin , Müller Birgit , Peng Jian , Pöhlker Mira L. , Ratzke Leonie , Reichstein Markus , Richter Solveig , Rüger Nadja , Sánchez‐Parra Beatriz , Shadaydeh Maha , Sippel Sebastian , Tegen Ina , Thrän Daniela , Umlauft Josefine , Wendisch Manfred , Wolf Kevin , Wirth Christian , Zacher Hannes , Zaehle Sönke , Quaas Johannes 
Published: June 2024

AbstractSoil is central to the complex interplay among biodiversity, climate, and society. This paper examines the interconnectedness of soil biodiversity, climate change, and societal impacts, emphasizing the urgent need for integrated solutions. Human‐induced biodiversity loss and climate change intensify environmental degradation, threatening human well‐being. Soils, rich in biodiversity and vital for ecosystem function regulation, are highly vulnerable to these pressures, affecting nutrient cycling, soil fertility, and resilience. Soil also crucially regulates climate, influencing energy, water cycles, and carbon storage. Yet, climate change poses significant challenges to soil health and carbon dynamics, amplifying global warming. Integrated approaches are essential, including sustainable land management, policy interventions, technological innovations, and societal engagement. Practices like agroforestry and organic farming improve soil health and mitigate climate impacts. Effective policies and governance are crucial for promoting sustainable practices and soil conservation. Recent technologies aid in monitoring soil biodiversity and implementing sustainable land management. Societal engagement, through education and collective action, is vital for environmental stewardship. By prioritizing interdisciplinary research and addressing key frontiers, scientists can advance understanding of the soil biodiversity–climate change–society nexus, informing strategies for environmental sustainability and social equity.
Black Titanium Oxide/Activated TaS2 Flakes Photoelectrode for Plasmon Assisted Hydrogen Evolution at Neutral pH at High Current Density
Authors: Severa Kamil , Buravets Vladislav , Burtsev Vasilii , Zabelina Anna , Hrbek Tomas , Kolska Zdenka , Fitl Premysl , Svorcik Vaclav , Lyutakov Oleksiy 
Published: June 2024

AbstractA heterojunction photo‐electrode(s) consisting of porous black titanium oxide (bTiO2) and electrochemically self‐activated TaS2 flakes is proposed and utilized for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The self‐activated TaS2 flakes provide abundant catalytic sites for HER and the porous bTiO2, prepared by electrochemical anodization and subsequent reduction serves as an efficient light absorber, providing electrons for HER. Additionally, Au nanostructures are introduced between bTiO2 and TaS2 to facilitate the charge transfer and plasmon‐triggering ability of the structure created. After structure optimization, high HER catalytic activity at acidic pH and excellent HER activity at neutral pH are achieved at high current densities. In particular, with the utilization of bTiO2@TaS2 photoelectrode (neutral electrolyte, sunlight illumination) current densities of 250 and 500 mA cm−2 are achieved at overpotentials of 433, and 689 mV, respectively, both exceeding the “benchmark” Pt. The addition of gold nanostructures further reduces the overpotential to 360 and 543 mV at 250 and 500 mA cm−2, respectively. The stability of the prepared electrodes is investigated and found to be satisfying within 24 h of performance at high current densities. The proposed system offers an excellent potential alternative to Pt for the development of green hydrogen production on an industrial scale.
Low‐Temperature Methane Activation Reaction Pathways over Mechanochemically‐Generated Ce4+/Cu+ Interfacial Sites
Authors: Mauri Silvia , Calligaro Rudy , Pauletti Carlo Federico , Camellone Matteo Farnesi , Boaro Marta , Braglia Luca , Fabris Stefano , Piccinin Simone , Torelli Piero , Trovarelli Alessandro 
Published: June 2024

AbstractMethane is a valuable resource and its valorization is an important challenge in heterogeneous catalysis. Here it is shown that CeO2/CuO composite prepared by ball milling activates methane at a temperature as low as 250 °C. In contrast to conventionally prepared catalysts, the formation of partial oxidation products such as methanol and formaldehyde is also observed. Through an in situ Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and operando Near Edge X‐Ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy (NEXAFS) approach, it can be established that this unusual reactivity can be attributed to the presence of Ce4+/Cu+ interfaces generated through a redox exchange between Ce3+ and Cu2+ atoms facilitated by the mechanical energy supplied during milling. DFT modeling of the electronic properties confirms the existence of a charge transfer mechanism. These results demonstrate the effectiveness and distinctiveness of the mechanical approach in creating unique and resilient interfaces thereby enabling the optimization and refining of CeO2/CuO catalysts in methane activation reactions.
Synergistic Passivation on Buried Interface for Highly Efficient and Stable p–i–n Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Kai , Yu Bo , Lin Changqing , Yao Ruohe , Yu Huangzhong , Wang Hong 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe properties of an interface at the hole transport layer (HTL)/perovskite layer are crucial for the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells (PVSCs), especially the buried interface between HTL and perovskite layer. Here, a molecular named potassium 1‐trifluoroboratomethylpiperidine (3FPIP) assistant‐modified perovskite bottom interface strategy is proposed to improve the charge transfer capability and balances energy level between HTL and perovskite. BF3− in the 3FPIP molecule interacts with undercoordinated Pb2+ to passivate iodine vacancies and enhance PVSCs performance. Furthermore, the infiltration of K+ ions into perovskite molecules enhances the crystallinity and stability of perovskite. Therefore, the PVSCs with the buried interface treatment exhibit a champion performance of 24.6%. More importantly, the corresponding devices represent outstanding ambient stability, remaining at 92% of the initial efficiency after 1200 h. This work provides a new method of buried interface engineering with functional group synergy.
Exploring engineering properties of sustainable multi‐grade concrete: Materials, structural, and environmental aspects
Authors: Iqbal Abdul Mueed , Irfan‐ul‐Hassan Muhammad , Siddiqui Jawad Ahmed , Javed Nasir 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThrough experimental and theoretical studies, this research explores the materials, structural, and environmental aspects of multi‐grade concrete (MGC), a potentially sustainable structural concrete. The experimental part investigates the compressive, split cylinder, flexural, and shear strengths of MGC, essential parameters for the design of structural members composed of MGC. It also provides the relationships between various strengths. The compressive behavior is correlated with the cracking pattern and the confinement effect caused by the end platens. The theoretical study involves determining the carbon emissions (CEs) and modifying ASTM/ACI expressions for the flexural tensile strength (FTS) and shear capacity applicable to MGC. Three uni‐grade concretes (UGCs) with distinct materials, properties, and grades: grade 17 (G17), grade 25 (G25), and grade 30 (G30), were poured in layers of varied thicknesses to make two variants of MGC. Experimental investigations showed that the higher‐strength concrete (HSC) confined the lower‐strength concrete (LSC) part thus increasing the compressive strength. Replacing 50% of LSC with HSC led to an increase in compressive and shear strengths by 21% and 40%, respectively. The shear strength values of reinforced MGC beams observed experimentally are aligned with those obtained through the modified expressions developed by the authors. A trade‐off analysis among the strengths, CEs, and costs of UGC and MGC can aid in selecting MGC customized to specific requirements, thereby contributing to the development of sustainable structural concrete.
Modelling of Demands of Selected Minerals and Metals in Clean Energy Transition with 1.5–2.0 °C Mitigation Targets
Authors: Koljonen Tiina , Lehtilä Antti , Kiviranta Kirsikka , Koponen Kati , Similä Lassi 
Published: June 2024

AbstractTackling climate change and the transition to a low-carbon energy system will especially increase the demand for certain minerals and metals, such as cobalt, copper, lithium and rare-earth elements. This raises questions about possible constraints to a clean energy system transition. Environmental and social concerns have also been raised about mining for these minerals in the Global South region. This chapter explores the future demand for selected minerals and metals in long-term scenarios for the global energy system until 2100. The climate policy pathways follow UNFCCC Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), extrapolated until 2100, and immediate action towards limiting warming to 1.5–2 °C. The scenarios have been modelled with the TIMES-VTT Integrated Assessment Model, which includes data on metal demands for renewable energy technologies, carbon capture and storage (CCS) power plant technologies (both fossil and bioenergy with CCS), nuclear power, battery technologies, electrolyzers, and electric vehicles. Our results suggest that to ensure affordable and clean energy access for all (SDG7) along with climate action (SDG13) the demand for mining activities in the Global South will increase rapidly, which raises concerns about inequalities between countries (SDG10). We need socially inclusive solutions and public-private partnerships to make sure that everyone benefits throughout the value chains. Human rights, safe working conditions, and the protection of the local environment in the Global South must be constantly audited to ensure a sustainable transition to clean energy systems.
Retrospective of Prospective Exercises: A Chronicle of Long-Term Modelling and Energy Policymaking in France
Authors: Maïzi Nadia , Assoumou Edi , Millot Ariane 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe French prospective aims to influence the shaping of the future by exploring different scenarios and evolution, so that long-term challenges are considered in current decision-making. In practice realizing this linkage between modelers and policy makers is itself a process and comes with its own challenges. This chapter reflects on modelling to inform various energy policy assessments in France aligned with SDGs 7 (energy), 8 (economic growth), 9 (industry), 11 (cities) and 13 (climate), across several exercises around the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the nuclear phase-out, the implementation of a 100% renewable power system with its reliability issues and the assessment of carbon value. It is based on our practical experience at the Centre for Applied Mathematics (MINES Paris—Université PSL) where TIMES has been used as a bottom-up optimization approach to offer insights, within extended committees, to French policymakers. The model we developed is the TIMES-FR model where FR stands for France. Our experience reveals that policymakers do not fully harness the wealth of technical insights provided by researchers, as they often prioritize short or mid-term challenges. While policy perspective does not seem to need the precision and comprehensiveness of technical modelling, we show that the insights tend to penetrate at some point in the public debate and policy-making sphere, which emphasizes the relevance of using prospective and energy system models to address climate change.
Accelerating the Performance of Large-Scale TIMES Models in the Modelling of Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Panos Evangelos , Hassan Aymane 
Published: June 2024

AbstractEnergy system models become very complex when introducing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in high spatial and temporal detail. This can challenge their solvability and may require aggregation or reformulation of the optimisation problem or even solver-based methods for accelerating the solution time of the models. We provide insights into two powerful solver-based methods using a European TIMES-based model to guide the modeller in applying these methods. The first method involves efficiently parametrising the Barrier interior point solver in a shared-memory system, e.g., a personal computer. We find that with a suitable set of Barrier solver options, the run time of our test model was reduced by 95%. The second solver-based method uses distributed computing systems to solve the model matrix in parallel and across several nodes. We find that by exploiting the new parallel interior point solver PIPS-IPM++, we can scale up the model size several times without increasing solution runtimes when solving across multiple nodes. By combining solver- methods with suitable model reformulations, the energy system modelling research community can accelerate the solution of large-scale models featuring the assessment of the complex interactions between several SDGs.
Surgeon-performed transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasound for vocal cord assessment after total thyroidectomy: a prospective study
Authors: Rossi Leonardo , Papini Piermarco , De Palma Andrea , Fregoli Lorenzo , Becucci Chiara , Ambrosini Carlo Enrico , Morganti Riccardo , Materazzi Gabriele 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Assessing vocal cord mobility is crucial for patients undergoing thyroid surgery. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of surgeon-performed transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasound (TLUS) compared to flexible nasolaryngoscopy.

Method
From February 2022 to December 2022, we conducted a prospective observational study on patients scheduled for total thyroidectomy at our Institution. All patients underwent TLUS followed by flexible nasolaryngoscopy by a blinded otolaryngologist. Findings were classified as normal or vocal cord movement impairment and then compared. Patients evaluable on TLUS were included in Group A, while those not evaluable were included in Group B, and their features were compared.

Results
Group A included 180 patients, while Group B included 21 patients. Male sex (p < 0.001), age (p = 0.034), BMI (p < 0.001), thyroid volume (p = 0.038), and neck circumference (p < 0.001) were associated with Group B. TLUS showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of 100%, 99.4%, 94.4%, 100%, and 99.4%, respectively. Cohen’s K value was 0.984.

Conclusion
TLUS is a valid, easy-to-perform, non-invasive, and painless alternative for evaluating vocal cords in selected patients. It can be used either as a first level exam and as screening tool for selecting cases for flexible nasolaryngoscopy. TLUS should be integrated into routine thyroid ultrasound examination.
Evaluation of the clinical assessment scale for autoimmune encephalitis (CASE) in a retrospective cohort and a systematic review
Authors: Soellradl Eva , von Oertzen Tim J. , Wagner Judith N. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) poses significant challenges in clinical management, requiring effective monitoring tools for therapeutic success and relapse detection. This study aims to assess the Clinical Assessment Scale in Autoimmune Encephalitis (CASE) as compared to the modified Rankin scale (mRS) in evaluating AE patients and to determine the real-world adoption of the CASE score.

Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 20 AE patients, assessing clinical data including symptomatology, diagnostic findings, and therapeutic regimens. Furthermore, we performed a systematic review on the test performance criteria and the real-world use of the CASE score.

Results
The CASE score showed a higher sensitivity in detecting clinical changes compared to the mRS, with a significant correlation between the two scales throughout the disease course (r = 0.85, p < 0.01). A systematic review of 150 articles revealed widespread adoption of the CASE score, especially in Asian populations, demonstrating high reliability and internal consistency.

Discussion
Despite limitations such as retrospective design and small sample size, our findings underscore the CASE score's utility in both clinical practice and research settings. The CASE score emerges as a valuable tool for monitoring AE patients, offering improved sensitivity over existing scales like the mRS. Further validation studies in diverse populations are warranted to establish its broader applicability and inform future therapeutic interventions.