bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UAV‐based simultaneous localization and mapping in outdoor environments: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Wang Kaiwen , Kooistra Lammmert , Pan Ruoxi , Wang Wensheng , Valente João
Published: April 2024

This study aims to investigate the current knowledge of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)‐based simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) in outdoor environments and to discuss challenges and limitations in this field. A literature search was conducted in three online databases (Web of Science, Scopus, and IEEE) for articles published before October 2022 related to UAV‐based SLAM. A scoping review was carried out to identify the key concepts and applications, and discover research gaps in the use of algorithm‐oriented and task‐oriented, open‐source studies. A total of 97 studies met the criteria after conducting a two‐step screening by a systematic method followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses. Among eligible studies, 97 were classified into two main categories: algorithm‐oriented studies and task‐oriented studies. The analysis of the literature revealed that the majority of the studies were focused on the development and implementation of new algorithms and algorithms. This review highlights the significance and diversity of sensors utilized in UAVs in different tasks and applications scenarios that employ different types of sensors. The evaluation method is able to show the real results and performance of the new algorithms in the target scenarios compared with the evaluation method by the public data set and simulation platform.
Tuning the A‐site Element in LaCo0.8Fe0.2O3 Perovskite‐based Catalyst for High Temperature N2O Decomposition in Nitric Acid Plant
Authors: Zheng Peng , He Faquan , Wu Yihao , Yang Jianhui , Jing Fangli , Granger Pascal
Published: April 2024

The effect of La‐deficiency and Ce/Sr‐substitution in the benchmark LaCo0.8Fe0.2O3 has been investigated for the decomposition of N2O between 500 and 900 °C. Real inlet gas composition and space velocity reveal that La‐deficiency and Ce/Sr‐substitution can improve the thermal stability of catalyst, while La1‐xSrxCo0.8Fe0.2O3 with x≥0.1 was highlighted as a promising formula due to the strongest resistance to deactivation and suppressed undesired NOx decomposition at high space velocity. This phenomenon is mainly ascribed to the incorporation of Sr2+ into the perovskite lattice during the reaction consequently stabilizing the Co3+ species and creating the oxygen vacancies in La1‐xSrxCoO3‐δ. On the contrary, the loss of activity on Ce‐substituted LaCo0.8Fe0.2O3 has been preferentially related to the cobalt exsolution to extra framework of perovskite making the catalytic cycle with Co3+ unfavorable. All these bulk and surface changes are accompanied with opposite evolution of apparent activation energy and pre‐exponential factor which can be discussed based on a redox mechanism.
Influence of Substituents on the Reaction of Substituted (4‐Oxo‐3‐Phenyl‐1,3‐Thiazolidin‐2‐Ylidene)acetates with α,α‐Dicyanoolefins: Synthesis of Quinoline and Quinazoline‐Substituted Carboxylates
Authors: Alizadeh Abdolali , Rostampoor Azar
Published: April 2024

In this work, a novel strategy for the straightforward synthesis of quinoline and quinazoline‐substituted carboxylates is described. The reaction between substituted (4‐oxo‐3‐phenyl‐1,3‐thiazolidin‐2‐ylidene)acetates and substituted α,α‐dicyanoolefins is explored, with a focus on the effects of substituents. The process involves a base‐mediated Michael addition, cleavage of C−C bonds, intramolecular cyclization, [1,5]‐H shift, and aromatization. The benefits of this process include high efficiency, mild reaction conditions, simplicity, and a wide range of products. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports for the synthesis of these classes of quinoline and quinazoline‐substituted carboxylate derivatives.
Influence of Complex Plasticizer on Plasticizing Effects and Rheological Properties of Plasticized Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)
Authors: Wang Chao , Zou Liming , Wang Huajun , Wang Yanli , Li Yan Vivian
Published: April 2024

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was modified using D‐mannitol (DM) and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazole bromide (BMIMBr) as the complex plasticizer (DB), and PVA/DB composite was prepared. The plasticizing effect of DB on PVA was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), differntial scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermos gravimetric analysis (TGA) and melt flow indexer (MI). FT‐IR analysis indicated that Br− of BMIMBr and OH of DM could form H‐bonds with OH of PVA. With the increase of DB, the melt temperature (Tm2) and crystallization temperature (Tc1) of PVA/DB composite decreased, the initial thermal decomposition temperatures (Td), thermal processing window (ΔT) and MI values increased respectively. Based on above studies, the influence of DB content on rheological properties of PVA/DB composite was investigated by the capillary rheometer. The result displayed that apparent viscosity of PVA/DB composite decreased with increasing DB content, shear rate and measured temperature. The non‐Newtonian index (n) increased and structural viscosity index (Δη) decreased with the increase of measured temperature and DB. The viscous flow activation energy (Eη) decreased as the shear rate and DB content increased. When the measured temperature, DB content and shear rate were in the range of Tm2+30 −Tm2+35 °C, 40–50 wt% and 764.8–1504.9 s−1, respectively, the spinnability of PVA/DB composite was optimal, which will lay a theoretical foundation for the exploration of melt spinning process in the future.
Oxygen Vacancies Boost High‐Energy {100} Faceted TiO2 for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Ma Xiaojia , Tang Xuejing , Yi Hui , Cai Jinyuan , Guo Sheng‐Qi
Published: April 2024

Photocatalytic reaction takes place on the surface of the catalyst, the crystal plane engineering which can adjust and optimize the surface atomic ordering and electronic energy band structure has been widely studied, considering the microchemical environment changes caused by defects on different surfaces, the combination of crystal plane engineering and defect engineering is expected to become a promising strategy to greatly improve the performance of photocatalysis. In this paper, we introduce 2,2’‐Bipyridyl to induce oxygen vacancy in the synthesis of highly exposed {100} faceted TiO2 nanorods, and obtain oxygen‐rich TiO2 nanomaterials. Benefit from the synergistic effect of high‐energy crystal plane and oxygen vacancy, 96.8 % Rhodamine B (10 mg ⋅ L−1) is degraded after irradiation of 30 min in T100‐VO photocatalytic system. This study provides a new strategy and inspiration for low‐cost control of semiconductor oxides and the design of efficient photocatalysts for environmental purification.
Chalcones with N‐Methylpiperazine Moiety: Synthesis, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibition, Neuroprotective Effect and Computer Simulation Study
Authors: Jayan Jayalakshmi , Trisciuzzi Daniela , Benny Feba , Kumar Sunil , Gambacorta Nicola , Catto Marco , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Al‐Serwi Rasha Hamed , Gahtori Prashant , Zachariah Subin Mary , Nicolotti Orazio , Mathew Bijo
Published: April 2024

Eleven derivatives of chalcones (PZ1–PZ11) were synthesized by incorporating N‐methyl piperazine on the para position of the aromatic B ring of chalcones. The A ring is substituted with different electron‐donating and withdrawing groups. All the final derivatives were evaluated for their monoamine oxidase A and B inhibition studies. From the series of compounds PZ‐7 was found to possess good MAO‐B inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 2.60±0.22 μM, followed by PZ‐9 with an IC50 value of 3.44±0.20 μM, when compared with reference compound pargyline 2.69±0.48 μM. PZ‐7 also considerably reduced the cell mortality triggered by rotenone in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. The docking study found that PZ‐7 showed a docking score of −10.809 kCal/mol, with a polar interaction with Gln206, and π‐π stacking interaction between the B ring of chalcone. A molecular dynamics simulation study showed higher stability of the protein–ligand complex. Overall, compound PZ‐7 could serve as a promising MAO‐B inhibitor with neuroprotective action.
Exploring Carbonization Temperature to Create Closed Pores for Hard Carbon as High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Zhang Xiue , Cao Yongjie , Li Guodong , Liu Gaopan , Dong Xiaoli , Wang Yonggang , Jiang Xiaolei , Zhang Xiang , Xia Yongyao
Published: April 2024

Biomass‐derived porous carbon materials are meaningful to employ as a hard carbon precursor for anode materials of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) from a sustainability perspective. Here, a straightforward approach is proposed to develop rich closed pores in pinenut‐derived carbon, with the aim of improving Na+ plateau storage by adjusting the pyrolysis temperature. The optimized sample, namely the pinenut‐derived carbon at 1300 °C, demonstrates remarkable reversible specific capacity of 278 mAh g−1, along with a high initial Coulomb efficiency of 85% and robust cycling stability (with a capacity retention of 89% after 800 cycles at 0.2 A g−1). In situ and ex situ analyses unveil that the developed closed pores play a significant role in enhancing the plateau capacity, providing compelling evidence for the “adsorption‐filling” mechanism. Moreover, the corresponding full‐cell achieves a high energy density of 245.7 Wh kg−1 (based on the total weight of both electrode active materials) and exhibits outstanding rate capability (191.4 mAh g−1 at 3 A g−1).
Rapid Preparation Triggered by Visible Light for Tough Hydrogel Sensors with Low Hysteresis and High Elasticity: Mechanism, Use and Recycle‐by‐Design
Authors: Liu Qi , Xie Mingwei , Wang Chenghao , Deng Mingming , Li Ping , Yang Xulin , Zhao Nihui , Huang Chi , Zhang Xinghua
Published: April 2024

Hydrogels have emerged as promising candidates for flexible devices and water resource management. However, further applications of conventional hydrogels are restricted due to their limited performance and lack of a recycling strategy. Herein, a tough, flexible, and recyclable hydrogel sensor via a visible‐light‐triggered polymerization is rapidly created. The Zn2+ crosslinked terpolymer is in situ polymerized using g‐C3N4 as the sole initiator to form in situ chain entanglements, endowing the hydrogels with low hysteresis and high elasticity. In the use phase, the hydrogel sensor exhibited high ion conductivity, excellent mechanical properties, fast responsiveness, high sensitivity, and remarkable anti‐fatigue ability, making it exceptionally effective in accurately monitoring complex human movements. At the end‐of‐life (EOL), leveraging the synergy between the photodegradation capacity of g‐C3N4 and the adsorption function of the hydrogel matrix, the post‐consumer hydrogel is converted into water remediation materials, which not only promoted the rapid degradation of organic pollutants, but also facilitated collection and reuse. This innovative strategy combined in situ entangling reinforcement and tailored recycle‐by‐design that employed g‐C3N4 as key blocks in the hydrogel to achieve high performance in the use phase and close the loop through the reutilization at EOL, highlighting the cost‐effective synthesis, specialized structure, and life cycle management.
Constructing Directional Electrostatic Potential Difference via Gradient Nitrogen Doping for Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Qi Zhijie , Lu Zhenjie , Guo Xiangjie , Jiang Jun , Liu Shujun , Sun Jingwen , Wang Xin , Zhu Junwu , Fu Yongsheng
Published: April 2024

Nitrogen doping has been recognized as an important strategy to enhance the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of carbon‐encapsulated transition metal catalysts (TM@C). However, previous reports on nitrogen doping have tended to result in a random distribution of nitrogen atoms, which leads to disordered electrostatic potential differences on the surface of carbon layers, limiting further control over the materials' electronic structure. Herein, a gradient nitrogen doping strategy to prepare nitrogen‐deficient graphene and nitrogen‐rich carbon nanotubes encapsulated cobalt nanoparticles catalysts (Co@CNTs@NG) is proposed. The unique gradient nitrogen doping leads to a gradual increase in the electrostatic potential of the carbon layer from the nitrogen‐rich region to the nitrogen‐deficient region, facilitating the directed electron transfer within these layers and ultimately optimizing the charge distribution of the material. Therefore, this strategy effectively regulates the density of state and work function of the material, further optimizing the adsorption of oxygen‐containing intermediates and enhancing ORR activity. Theoretical and experimental results show that under controlled gradient nitrogen doping, Co@CNTs@NG exhibits significantly ORR performance (Eonset = 0.96 V, E1/2 = 0.86 V). At the same time, Co@CNTs@NG also displays excellent performance as a cathode material for Zn–air batteries, with peak power density of 132.65 mA cm−2 and open‐circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.51 V. This work provides an effective gradient nitrogen doping strategy to optimize the ORR performance.
Roll‐to‐Roll Manufacturing of Breathable Superhydrophobic Membranes
Authors: Liu Huan , Zhong Haosong , Yuan Qiaoyaxiao , Yang Rongliang , Kim Minseong , Chan Yee Him Timothy , Chen Siyu , Lin Jing , Li Mitch Guijun
Published: April 2024

Self‐cleaning and anti‐biofouling are both advantages for lotus‐leaf‐like superhydrophobic surfaces. Methods for creating superhydrophobicity, including chemical bonding low surface energy molecular fragments and constructing surface morphology with protrusions, micropores, and trapped micro airbags by traditional physical strategies, unfortunately, have encountered challenges. They often involve complex synthesis processes, stubborn chemical accumulation, brutal degradation, or infeasible calculation and imprecise modulation in fabricating hierarchical surface roughness. Here, a scalable method to prepare high‐quality, breathable superhydrophobic membranes is proposed by developing a successive roll‐to‐roll laser manufacturing technique, which offers advantages over conventional fabrication approaches in enabling automatically large‐scale production and ensuring cost‐effectiveness. Nanosecond laser writing and femtosecond laser drilling produce surface microstructures and micropore arrays, respectively, endowing the membrane with superior antiwater capability with hierarchical microstructures forming a barrier and blocking water infiltration. The membrane's breathability is carefully optimized by tailoring micropore arrays to allow for the adequate passage of water vapor while maintaining superhydrophobicity. These membranes combine the benefits of anti‐aqueous corrosive liquid behaviors, photothermal effects, thermoplastic properties, and stretchable performances as promising comprehensive materials in diverse scenes.
Brownian Motion Paving the Way for Molecular Translocation in Nanopores
Authors: Lee Won‐Yong , Wen Chenyu , Pham Ngan Hoang , Khaksaran Mohammad Hadi , Lee Sang‐Kwon , Zhang Shi‐Li
Published: April 2024

Tracing fast nanopore‐translocating analytes requires a high‐frequency measurement system that warrants a temporal resolution better than 1 µs. This constraint may practically shift the challenge from increasing the sampling bandwidth to dealing with the rapidly growing noise with frequencies typically above 10 kHz, potentially making it still uncertain if all translocation events are unambiguously captured. Here, a numerical simulation model is presented as an alternative to discern translocation events with different experimental settings including pore dimension, bias voltage, the charge state of the analyte, salt concentration, and electrolyte viscosity. The model allows for simultaneous analysis of forces exerting on a large analyte cohort along their individual trajectories; these forces are responsible for the analyte movement leading eventually to the nanopore translocation. Through tracing the analyte trajectories, the Brownian force is found to dominate the analyte movement in electrolytes until the last moment at which the electroosmotic force determines the final translocation act. The mean dwell time of analytes mimicking streptavidin decreases from ≈6 to ≈1 µs with increasing the bias voltage from ±100 to ±500 mV. The simulated translocation events qualitatively agree with the experimental data with streptavidin. The simulation model is also helpful for the design of new solid‐state nanopore sensors.
Efficient Charge Transport in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells via 2D/3D Ferroelectric Heterojunction
Authors: Li Zihao , Sun Anxin , Zheng Yiting , Zhuang Rongshan , Wu Xueyun , Tian Congcong , Tang Chen , Liu Yuan , Ouyang Beilin , Du Jiajun , Li Ziyi , Cai Jingyu , Wu Xiling , Chen Jinling , Hua Yong , Chen Chun‐Chao
Published: April 2024

While the 2D/3D heterojunction is an effective method to improve the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), carriers are often confined in the quantum wells (QWs) due to the unique structure of 2D perovskite, which makes the charge transport along the out‐of‐plane direction difficult. Here, a 2D/3D ferroelectric heterojunction formed by 4,4‐difluoropiperidine hydrochloride (2FPD) in inverted PSCs is reported. The enriched 2D perovskite (2FPD)2PbI4 layer with n = 1 on the perovskite surface exhibits ferroelectric response and has oriented dipoles along the out‐of‐plane direction. The ferroelectricity of the oriented dipole layer facilitates the enhancement of the built‐in electric field (1.06 V) and the delay of the cooling process of hot carriers, reflected in the high carrier temperature (above 1400 K) and the prolonged photobleach recovery time (139.85 fs, measured at bandgap), improving the out‐of‐plane conductivity. In addition, the alignment of energy levels is optimized and exciton binding energy (32.8 meV) is reduced by changing the dielectric environment of the surface. Finally, the 2FPD‐treated PSCs achieve a PCE of 24.82% (certified: 24.38%) with the synergistic effect of ferroelectricity and defect passivation, while maintaining over 90% of their initial efficiency after 1000 h of maximum power point tracking.
Children, Citizenship, and Commons: Insights from Three Case Studies in Lisbon on the 3 C's
Authors: Tomás Catarina , Gonçalves Carolina , Gazzinelli Juliana , Almeida Aline
Published: April 2024

Listening to children in educational settings is vital for establishing inclusive and equitable environments. This approach recognizes children as active agents and contributors to their education, enabling them to express their needs and participate in decision-making processes. By involving children in educational discourse, pedagogical practices can better align with their interests, resulting in more effective, engaging, and democratic learning experiences. The synergy between Childhood Studies and Educational Sciences underscores the necessity of heeding children’s voices to enhance educational quality and foster active citizenship. This chapter presents the findings of the SMOOTH subproject—RED_Rights, Equity, and Diversity in Educational Contexts. It conducted three case studies in Lisbon, Portugal, involving focus groups with children from diverse educational contexts, involving both formal and non-formal settings, between September and October 2022. These studies aimed to explore diverse dimensions of the educational commons concept, including children’s roles as commoners, commoning practices, and communal aspects related to goods and values within educational and community settings. The findings apprise children’s perspectives as citizens and commoners, highlighting their creativity, self-awareness, interests, and active participation in activities. Additionally, they shed light on emotional and expressive reactions and highlight intersectionality issues within these contexts. This research underscores the vital importance of listening to children, ultimately enhancing educational quality, and promoting active citizenship.
From Crisis to Commons? Exploring the Potential of the Commons Via Two Secondary Education Case Studies in Flanders
Authors: Tourne Juno , Roose Rudi , Devlieghere Jochen , Bradt Lieve
Published: April 2024

Education in Flanders—the Dutch-speaking region of Belgium—is currently facing what many describe as a crisis, marked by quality erosion and social inequalities. These issues have brought about a highly politicized and polarized debate that has led to a sole focus on achieving cognitive test outcomes, side-lining the importance of equity and social justice. In response to this, a growing number of academics and practitioners are actively exploring alternative educational frameworks, with the ‘commons’ framework gaining prominence in this context. This chapter delves into the implementation of two commons-based projects within secondary schools in Flanders, highlighting the challenges faced in implementing commons principles within traditional educational settings. These challenges include resistance from teachers entrenched in the existing educational culture, the tendency to consider the commons as an individual responsibility rather than a collective commitment and the risk of instrumentalizing the commons by prioritizing outcomes over the participatory process. While commons-based initiatives face substantial hurdles within the current educational landscape, they offer a useful alternative horizon that challenges the status quo and may help bridge the gap between educational ideals and reality in Flanders and elsewhere.
Building Youth Civic Engagement through Media Education and Educational Commons
Authors: Cappello Gianna , Siino Marianna
Published: April 2024

The Italian case study, presented in this chapter, develops the concept of educational commons building on the field of media education and the notions of “participatory culture” and digital commons. The motivation for this study arose from the need to reconsider education as a shared resource and to examine the importance of experimenting with, monitoring, and evaluating (digital) co-creation practices that may engage and empower young people within their communities. Hence, our research questions were: (a) How do young people collectively experience and build the educational commons? (b) How do participants (youth and adults) in educational commons experience peer governance, and how do they handle and resolve conflicts? (c) How does the co-creation of a photo blog as a shared space of action help young people discover and develop a “civic intentionality” in the (digital) public sphere? (d) What are the effects of applying a commons’ logic to address inequalities and achieve social inclusion of young people from vulnerable social groups? The analysis of the textual data collected through interviews and focus groups, logbooks, fieldnotes, observation grids, and audiovisual documentation, we have been able to (a) reconstruct the micro-context in which the case study activities took place, (b) comprehensively describe the relational dynamics, the processes, and the products using unobtrusive methods, and (c) assess the impact of the activities concerning the objective of developing “civic intentionality” and reducing educational inequalities through an educational-commons and media-education approach.
Agüita: Educational Commons, Arts and Well-Being
Authors: del Moral-Espín Lucía , Serván-Melero Cristina , Gallego-Noche Beatriz , Rosendo-Chacón Ana María
Published: April 2024

This chapter focuses on a specific experience of educational commons: the Agüita creative workshops in Seville and Jerez de la Frontera, two Andalusian cities in the south of Spain. They are afterschool workshops for young people whose focus is listening to the participants and collaborative work through art. Specifically, this chapter addresses how artistic work nourishes and reinforces the tripartite structure of the commons and favours the practices of caring, cooperating and sharing, which are fundamental in developing the educational commons. To this end, four specific actions developed within the framework of the workshops are presented. In some of them, the sessions are open to specialists and artists who share their knowledge and dialogue about the processes of knowledge generation and artistic production with the young people. In others, it is the young people who go out to investigate and propose actions for intervention in the public space through art. In both cases, actions are guided by the logic of care and the promotion of well-being on different levels.
Kapitel 8. Landnutzung und Klimawandel im Kontext der Nachhaltigen Entwicklungsziele
Authors: Gratzer Georg , Shinozaki Kyoko , Damyanovic Doris , Hinterberger Friedrich , Koch Andreas , Obrovsky Michael , Penker Marianne , Schinko Thomas , Sturmbauer Christian , Weber Karin , Zessner Matthias
Published: April 2024

Dieses Kapitel präsentiert und bewertet den aktuellen Stand des Wissens zum Konnex Landnutzung und Klimawandel in Österreich aus dem systemischen Blickwinkel der UN Agenda 2030 für eine Nachhaltige Entwicklung. Dabei wird dem Thema entsprechend auf die Verflechtungen zwischen den lokalen, nationalen und internationalen Ebenen eingegangen. Die Menschheit befindet sich in kritischen, vielfältigen und vernetzten Krisen. Integrative und globale Lösungsansätze, wie sie in der Agenda 2030 festgeschrieben sind, haben für diese multiplen Krisen ein hohes Lösungspotenzial.
Kapitel 4. Anpassungsoptionen in der Landnutzung an den Klimawandel
Authors: Baumgarten Andreas , Lapin Katharina , Schüler Silvio , Freudenschuss Alexandra , Grüneis Heidi , Konrad Heino , Lexer Manfred J. , Miloczki Julia , Sandén Taru , Schauberger Günther , Mag. Dr. MSc. Schaumberger Andreas , Stumpp Christine , Zoboli Ottavia
Published: April 2024

Die vielfältigen Auswirkungen des Klimawandels führen in Österreich zu einem dringenden Anpassungsbedarf von menschlichen und natürlichen Systemen (APCC, 2014). Während Anpassung prinzipiell ein biologischer oder sozialer Entwicklungsprozess ist, sind jene Anpassungen an den Klimawandel effektiver, die proaktiv, geplant und vorausschauend passieren sowie unterschiedliche Akteur_innen, wie z. B. Wissenschafter_innen, Praktiker_innen und Entscheidungsträger_innen, involvieren (Adger et al., 2009; Berrang-Ford et al., 2011; Smit und Skinner, 2002)
Kapitel 6. Landnutzungsentscheidungen: Klimawandelrelevante Strategien, Steuerungsinstrumente und Managementansätze
Authors: Jäger Jill , Darnhofer Ika , Dobernig Karin , Kettner-Marx Claudia , Leitinger Georg , Meyer Ina , Scharler Markus , Sinabell Franz , Weber Gerlind
Published: April 2024

Landnutzungsentscheidungen werden unter anderem auf Grund der Knappheit der Landfläche bzw. der Knappheit des Bodens und der vom Boden zur Verfügung gestellten Leistungen (z. B. bereitstellende, regulierende und kulturelle Ökosystemleistungen; Box 1.2 Abschn. 3.5) getroffen. Bei vielen Entscheidungen können nicht alle Nutzungsansprüche erfüllt werden. Die Entscheidungen werden individuell (z. B. durch Wahl des Wohnstandorts) und kollektiv (z.B. Ressourcen-, Energie- und Infrastrukturpolitik) getroffen. Auch die Unterlassung flächensparender oder klimafreundlicher Entscheidungen und das Dulden umweltkontraproduktiver Subventionen können die Landnutzung beeinflussen.
Costs of fracture-related infection: the impact on direct hospital costs and healthcare utilisation
Authors: Haidari S. , Buijs M.A.S. , Plate J.D.J. , Zomer J. J. , IJpma F.F.A. , Hietbrink F. , Govaert G.A.M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Fracture-Related Infection (FRI) is associated with high medical costs and prolonged healthcare utilization. However, limited data is available on the financial impact. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of FRI on direct hospital costs and healthcare utilization.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study in a level-1 trauma centre in the Netherlands. Patients ≥ 18 years, after open reduction and internal fixation of a long bone fracture between January 1st 2016 and November 1st 2021, were included. Exclusion criteria were Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16, indefinable data on costs or incomplete follow-up. Hospital costs related to fracture treatment were individually calculated based on procedure codes raised with a fixed percentage of overhead expenses, in line with hospital billing policies.

Results

In total, 246 patients were included with a median follow-up of 1 year (IQR 0.6–1.8). A total of 45 patients developed FRI, of whom 15 patients had an FRI recurrence. Compared to non-FRI patients, median hospital costs from an FRI patient without and with recurrence, were respectively three (3.1) and seven (7.6) times higher. Compared to non-FRI patients, increased costs in patients with FRI or recurrent FRI are due to respectively a fivefold or even tenfold prolonged length-of-stay, two or seven additional infection-related surgeries, and 21 or 55 days of intravenous antibiotic treatment.

Conclusion

Direct healthcare costs of patients with single occurrence of FRI after long bone fracture treatment are three times higher compared to non-FRI patients. In case of FRI-recurrence, the differences in costs might even increase to sevenfold. To put this in perspective, cost of severely injured trauma patients were recently established at approximately 25.000 euros. Compared to non-FRI patients, increased costs in patients with FRI or recurrent FRI are due to respectively a fivefold or even tenfold prolonged length-of-stay, two or seven additional infection-related surgeries and 21 or 55 days of intravenous antibiotic treatment. Not only from patient perspective but also from a financial aspect, it is important to focus on prevention of (recurrent) FRI.
Structure of hybrid censoring schemes and its implications
Authors: Cramer Erhard
Published: April 2024

In this paper, structural properties of (progressive) hybrid censoring schemes are established by studying the possible data scenarios resulting from the hybrid censoring scheme. The results illustrate that the distributions of hybrid censored random variables can be immediately derived from the cases of Type-I and Type-II censored data. Furthermore, it turns out that results in likelihood and Bayesian inference are also obtained directly which explains the similarities present in the probabilistic and statistical analysis of these censoring schemes. The power of the approach is illustrated by applying the approach to the quite complex unified Type-II (progressive) hybrid censoring scheme. Finally, it is shown that the approach is not restricted to (progressively Type-II censored) order statistics and that it can be extended to almost any kind of ordered data.
A new approach of nano-metformin as a protector against radiation-induced cardiac fibrosis and inflammation via CXCL1/TGF-Β pathway
Authors: Karam Heba M. , Lotfy Dina M. , A. Ibrahim Ayman , Mosallam Farag M. , Abdelrahman Sahar S. , Abd-ElRaouf Amira
Published: April 2024

The present work investigates the potential role of metformin nanoparticles (MTF-NPs) as a radio-protector against cardiac fibrosis and inflammation induced by gamma radiation via CXCL1/TGF-β pathway. Lethal dose fifty of nano-metformin was determined in mice, then 21 rats (male albino) were equally divided into three groups: normal control (G1), irradiated control (G2), and MTF-NPs + IRR (G3). The possible protective effect of MTF-NPs is illustrated via decreasing cardiac contents of troponin, C-X-C motif Ligand 1 (CXCL1), tumor growth factor β (TGF-β), protein kinase B (AKT), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Also, the positive effect of MTF-NPs on insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in heart tissues using immunohistochemical technique is illustrated in the present study. Histopathological examination emphasizes the biochemical findings. The current investigation suggests that MTF-NPs might be considered as a potent novel treatment for the management of cardiac fibrosis and inflammation in patients who receive radiotherapy or workers who may be exposed to gamma radiation.

Graphical Abstract
Recent advances in near-infrared I/II persistent luminescent nanoparticles for biosensing and bioimaging in cancer analysis
Authors: Chan Ming-Hsien , Chang Yu-Chan
Published: April 2024

Photoluminescent materials (PLNs) are photoluminescent materials that can absorb external excitation light, store it, and slowly release it in the form of light in the dark to achieve long-term luminescence. Developing near-infrared (NIR) PLNs is critical to improving long-afterglow luminescent materials. Because they excite in vitro, NIR-PLNs have the potential to avoid interference from in vivo autofluorescence in biomedical applications. These materials are promising for biosensing and bioimaging applications by exploiting the near-infrared biological window. First, we discuss the biomedical applications of PLNs in the first near-infrared window (NIR-I, 700–900 nm), which have been widely developed and specifically introduce biosensors and imaging reagents. However, the light in this area still suffers from significant light scattering and tissue autofluorescence, which will affect the imaging quality. Over time, fluorescence imaging technology in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II, 1000–1700 nm) has also begun to develop rapidly. NIR-II fluorescence imaging has the advantages of low light scattering loss, high tissue penetration depth, high imaging resolution, and high signal-to-noise ratio, and it shows broad application prospects in biological analysis and medical diagnosis. This critical review collected and sorted articles from the past 5 years and introduced their respective fluorescence imaging technologies and backgrounds based on the definitions of NIR-I and NIR-II. We also analyzed the current advantages and dilemmas that remain to be solved. Herein, we also suggested specific approaches NIR-PLNs can use to improve the quality and be more applicable in cancer research.

Graphical abstract
In-line coupling of capillary-channeled polymer fiber columns with optical absorbance and multi-angle light scattering detection for the isolation and characterization of exosomes
Authors: Wysor Sarah K. , Marcus R. Kenneth
Published: April 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have garnered much interest due to their fundamental role in intracellular communication and their potential utility in clinical diagnostics and as biotherapeutic vectors. Of particular relevance is the subset of EVs referred to as exosomes, ranging in size from 30 to 150 nm, which contain incredible amounts of information about their cell of origin, which can be used to track the progress of disease. As a complementary action, exosomes can be engineered with therapeutic cargo to selectively target diseases. At present, the lack of highly efficient methods of isolation/purification of exosomes from diverse biofluids, plants, and cell cultures is a major bottleneck in the fundamental biochemistry, clinical analysis, and therapeutic applications. Equally impactful, the lack of effective in-line means of detection/characterization of isolate populations, including concentration and sizing, is limiting in the applications. The method presented here couples hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) performed on polyester capillary-channeled polymer (C-CP) fiber columns followed by in-line optical absorbance and multi-angle light scattering (MALS) detection for the isolation and characterization of EVs, in this case present in the supernatant of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell cultures. Excellent correlation was observed between the determined particle concentrations for the two detection methods. C-CP fiber columns provide a low-cost platform (< $5 per column) for the isolation of exosomes in a 15-min workflow, with complementary absorbance and MALS detection providing very high-quality particle concentration and sizing information.
Sonographic diagnosis of spondylodiscitis in a young child
Authors: Soudack Michalle , Shimoni Hadar-Yafit , Plotkin Simyon , Jacobson Jeffrey M
Published: April 2024

Sonographic diagnosis of spondylodiscitis is described in a 21-month-old girl who presented with altered gait. Spondylodiscitis, also referred to as discitis-osteomyelitis, is an infection of the intervertebral disc and adjacent vertebrae. The imaging modality of choice is spinal magnetic resonance imaging. Our case is the first description in the English language of the sonographic diagnosis of spondylodiscitis. Pediatric radiologists and sonographers should be acquainted with its features, for both incidental and intentional diagnosis.
Pulchinenoside B4 ameliorates oral ulcers in rats by modulating gut microbiota and metabolites
Authors: Luo Dewei , Yan Li , Wang Zhujun , Ji Xiaofan , Pei Na , Jia Jing , Luo Yingying , Ouyang Hui , Yang Shilin , Feng Yulin
Published: April 2024

Pulchinenoside B4, a natural saponin monomer from the Pulsatilla plant, plays an important role as an immunomodulator in the treatment of acute inflammation. Oral ulcer (OU) is a common ulcerative injury disease that occurs in the oral mucosa, including mucosal ulceration and abnormalities of lips and tongue. A close correlation exists between gut microbiota and circulating metabolites in patients with OU. However, the correlation between gut microbiota and serum metabolomics is not clear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the changes in gut microbiota and metabolites in OU. The 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) gene sequencing was used to detect the changes in the composition of gut microbiota in OU rat model. Moreover, the endogenous small metabolites were explored by collecting the non-targeted serum metabolomics data. A total of 34 OU-related biomarkers were identified, mainly related to fatty acid metabolism and inflammatory pathways. The administration of B4 effectively reduced the occurrence of OU and restored the levels of multiple endogenous biomarkers and key gut microbial species to the normal level. This study demonstrated that the gut microbiota and metabolites were altered in the OU rat model, which were significantly restored to the normal level by B4, thereby showing good application prospects in the treatment of OU.

Key points

• The first investigating the correlation between OU and gut microbiota.

• A close correlation between metabolites and gut microbiota in OU disease was successfully identified.

• Pulchinenoside B4 ameliorates oral ulcers in rats by modulating gut microbiota and metabolites.
Modulating Growth and Oil Profile of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): Paclobutrazol and Mepiquat Chloride Impacts
Authors: Qureshi Moin , Kordrostami Mojtaba , Uzun Bulent , Yol Engin
Published: April 2024

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important oilseed crop with significant economic importance in many developing countries. This study rigorously investigated the impact of various applications and doses of two specific plant growth regulators, paclobutrazol (PAC) and mepiquat chloride (MC), on the development, yield components, oil content, and fatty acid composition of sesame plants across two consecutive growing seasons. The research revealed that while paclobutrazol application increased the plant height it also resulted in a slight decrease in oil content. The paclobutrazol treatment resulted in the highest seed yield (21.3 g/plant), which was significantly different from both the MC (13.1 g/plant) and PAC + MC (14.6 g/plant) treatments. In contrast, the mepiquat chloride treatment resulted in the lowest oil content. The combined application of both regulators showed intermediate effects. In addition, variations in fatty acid content were observed between applications and doses, with significant differences in saturated and unsaturated fatty acid levels. The findings provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and implications of using growth regulators in sesame cultivation, especially in the context of mechanized harvesting and oil quality optimization.
Impacts of anthropogenic structures in long- and short-term shoreline evolution of Santa Marta Bay (Colombian Caribbean)
Authors: Portz Luana Carla , Villate-Daza Diego , Bolívar-Anillo Hernando José , Fontán-Bouzas Ángela , Alcántara-Carrió Javier , Manzolli Rogerio Portantiolo
Published: April 2024

Interaction of Anthropic interventions (rigid structures) with coasts is an essential aspect for understanding their geomorphic evolution and incorporating these data into adequate coastal management. This study analyses the short and long-term behavior (1985 to 2019) of shoreline at Santa Marta Bay (Caribbean - Colombia) and their relationship with coastal protection structures. The shoreline variations were analyzed through aerial photographs and satellite images using DSAS tools. The short-term assessment showed initial intense 1985–1991 erosion, with an average retreat speed rate of − 1.6 m·y− 1. It changed gradually since 2003, due to the construction of rigid structures and beach nourishment, decreasing shoreline retreat and even a progradation rate of 0.2 m·y− 1 was observed. The 2009–2019 period, despite recording a positive average value, exhibited a high percentage of erosion profiles. Therefore, in a decadal or long-term analysis (1985–2019), despite engineering works present positive results in the short term, new interventions are required. The coastal erosion is not uniform along the shoreline, because the area is a closed bay with small sediment inputs, the variations in erosion and accretion rates change with human intervention and the installation of new structures. Therefore, quantifying the scale and rate of shoreline changes and correlating them with anthropogenic structures is an essential step in assessing shoreline vulnerability.
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis and pregnancy: a mini-review
Authors: Zhou Jieshu , Diao Min
Published: April 2024

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis(LAM) is a slow progressive, rare cystic lung disease in women of reproductive age, associated with infiltration of the lung by atypical smooth muscle like cells, leading to the cystic destruction of the lung parenchyma. As LAM exclusively affects women of childbearing age, it can arise or exacerbate during pregnancy. Many patients with LAM are discouraged from pregnancy, although there is not much objective evidence effect on fertility. Patients diagnosed with LAM during pregnancy experience worse outcomes, so the safety of pregnancy is a vexing problem. What was worse, treatment strategies are limited on the effects of LAM on pregnancy outcomes. Pregnancy could be considered in LAM patients. Successful delivery in women with LAM depends on the condition of the LAM, which is in turn dependent on obstetricians and respiratory physicians. In this review, we describe the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical features and the treatment strategies of LAM during pregnancy.
Experimental re-melting of a continental crust: probing the deep storage zone of Campi Flegrei and Vesuvius magmas
Authors: Palummo Flavia , Perinelli Cristina , Bonechi Barbara , Fabbrizio Alessandro , Misiti Valeria , Scarlato Piergiorgio , Gaeta Mario
Published: April 2024

Mantle magmas interact with surrounding rocks during their ascent and storage in the continental crust, leading to open system processes as wall rock partial melting. In this study, we have experimentally investigated the reactions between a leucosome depleted migmatite and a primitive K-basaltic of Campi Flegrei (Italy). Experiments were carried out at pressure of 0.8 GPa temperatures from 1250 °C to 1050 °C and constant temperature and thermal gradient conditions. The experimental products consist of biotite-free migmatite, glass and crystals of clinopyroxene, olivine, plagioclase and Cr-spinel with proportions that vary as a function of temperature. Open system isothermal experiments indicate that the chemistry of melts and phase relationships are controlled by the high Al2O3 content of leucosome depleted migmatite with the glass composition shifting from K-trachybasalt towards shoshonite as the temperature decreases from 1200 °C to 1125 °C. At temperatures $$\le$$1150°C, migmatite assimilation is not exclusively due to the assimilation fractional crystallization process because evidence of mingling and mixing is observed. T-gradient experiment shows melt composition ranging from shoshonite to phono-tephrite moving from the slightly crystalline zone (T = 1250 –1210 °C) at the bottom of the capsule towards the highly crystalline zone (T = 1160 –1140 °C). This SiO2-constant trend indicates that at temperature below the basalt solidus, the assimilation of leucosome depleted crust is represented almost exclusively by the biotite breakdown, leading to the increase in Al, Mg, Fe, Ti, and K activities in the system. The shoshonitic composition obtained in our experiments could represent the parental magma for both Campi Flegrei volcanic district and Vesuvius magmatic systems, indicating modification in a deep storage zone through mixing with the partial melts derived from restitic continental crust.
Test–retest reliability of lower limb muscle strength, jump and sprint performance tests in elite female team handball players
Authors: Fristrup Bjørn , Krustrup Peter , Kristensen Kevin Højer , Rasmussen Steffen , Aagaard Per
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the reliability of lower limb muscle function (knee extensor/flexor peak torque, rate of torque development (RTD), impulse, and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance) and sprint performance (acceleration capacity).

Methods

CMJ performance was evaluated on a force plate. MVIC, RTD and impulse variables were investigated using a portable isometric dynamometer and sprint performance was assessed with dual-beam photocells in elite female athletes.

Results

CMJ test variables maximal vertical jump height, peak and mean power, concentric work, and body center of mass displacement demonstrated good-to-excellent test–retest correlations between Test 1 and Test 2 (ICC ≥ 0.70, CWw-s = 3.4–11.0%). Peak MVIC torque for the knee extensors and flexors demonstrated excellent test–retest correlations (both ICC = 0.84) along with CVw-s values of 6.8 and 6.0%, respectively. Late-phase (0–100 ms, 0–200 ms) RTD for the knee flexors demonstrated excellent test–retest correlations (ICC = 0.89–0.91, CVw-s = 4.8–8.5%). Sprint times at 10- and 20-m demonstrated excellent test–retest reproducibility (ICC = 0.83 and ICC = 0.90, respectively) with CVw-s values of 1.9 and 1.5%. For 5-m sprint times, test–retest reproducibility was good (ICC = 0.71) with CVw-s of 2.8%. Sprint testing performed while dribbling a handball improved (p < 0.05) from test to retest at 5-, 10- and 20-m.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the force plate, the mobile isometric dynamometer, and dual-beam photocells provide reproducible tools for field-based testing of countermovement jump performance, knee extensor and flexor strength and sprint performance.