bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Biosensing of L-DOPA Using Tyrosinase Immobilized on Carboxymethyl Starch-Graft-Polyaniline@MWCNTs Nanocomposite
Authors: Mollamohammadi Fahimeh , Faridnouri Hassan , Zare Ehsan Nazarzadeh
Published: May 2023

The electrochemical behavior of the immobilized tyrosinase (Tyrase) on a modified glassy carbon electrode with carboxymethyl starch-graft-polyaniline/multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposite (CMS-g-PANI@MWCNTs) was investigated. The molecular properties of CMS-g-PANI@MWCNTs nanocomposite and its morphological characterization were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). A simple drop-casting method was employed to immobilize Tyrase on the CMS-g-PANI@MWCNTs nanocomposite. In the cyclic voltammogram (CV), a pair of redox peaks were observed at the potentials of +0.25 to −0.1 V and E°’ was equal to 0.1 V and the apparent rate constant of electron transfer (Ks) was calculated at 0.4 s−1. Using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), the sensitivity and selectivity of the biosensor were investigated. The biosensor exhibits linearity towards catechol and L-dopa in the concentration range of 5–100 and 10–300 μM with a sensitivity of 2.4 and 1.11 μA μΜ−1 cm−2 and limit of detection (LOD) 25 and 30 μM, respectively. The Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) was calculated at 42 μΜ for catechol and 86 μΜ for L-dopa. After 28 working days, the biosensor provided good repeatability and selectivity, and maintained 67% of its stability. The existence of -COO− and -OH groups in carboxymethyl starch, -NH2 groups in polyaniline, and high surface-to-volume ratio and electrical conductivity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes in the CMS-g-PANI@MWCNTs nanocomposite cause good Tyrase immobilization on the surface of the electrode.
Construction Safety Risks of Metro Tunnels Constructed by the Mining Method in Wuhan City, China: A Structural Equation Model-Fuzzy Cognitive Map Hybrid Method
Authors: Wang Qiankun , Xiong Zhihua , Zhu Ke , Guo Peiwen
Published: May 2023

A hybrid method based on the structural equation model (SEM) and a fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) was developed to study the influences of the construction safety risks (CSR) of metro tunnels constructed by the mining method on the project risk (PR). An SEM was used to identify and verify the correlations between the CSR and PR. An FCM was developed adopting the verified standardized causality and path coefficient in the SEM. On this basis, predictive reasoning and diagnostic reasoning were performed in the framework of an FCM to simulate the CSR and PR. The feasibility of the developed method was validated based on the construction project of a metro tunnel in Wuhan City, China. The results show that (1) the cause concept node C2 (tunnel excavation) shows the strongest positive correlation with the target concept node CT (PR). According to their risks, the construction stages are ranked in descending order as C2 (tunnel excavation), C1 (advanced support), C6 (auxiliary measures), C4 (structure waterproofing), C3 (primary support), and C5 (secondary lining). (2) The target concept node CT is most sensitive to changes in the cause concept nodes C2 and C1. (3) Close attention should be paid to key risks, such as X9 (over-excavation and under-excavation) and X8 (unreasonable determination of excavation footage and sequence) in stage C2. Originality and significance: (1) A hybrid method that can simulate the dynamic interaction between the CSR and PR is proposed. (2) A new perspective for the dynamic evaluation of a PR is provided. (3) The method can be used as a decision-making tool for controlling the PR.
Towards Digital Twin Maintenance Management of Health Facilities in Nigeria: The Need for Maintenance Documentation
Authors: Ebiloma David Ojimaojo , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis , Anumba Chimay
Published: May 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic that recently broke forth revealed the waning state of a considerable number of healthcare facilities, especially in unindustrialized territories. This is of great concern, and it has become pertinent to identify determinants of efficient maintenance management in developing countries. There is an inefficient maintenance management of hospital buildings due to a low level of maintenance documentation, which otherwise would have facilitated the adoption of digital twin (DT) technology. The existing maintenance management frameworks and models have not explored and evaluated maintenance documentation as an all-inclusive construct. Hence, this study was aimed at emphasizing the significance of maintenance documentation for its adoption as one of the main determinants of efficient maintenance management, with a view to attaining the DT maintenance management of hospital buildings in Nigeria. After a theoretical review on existing studies around documentation, the software documentation concept was used to conceptualise this observed gap in maintenance management models for public hospital buildings in developing countries. This critical review, which forms part of an ongoing study, asserts that maintenance documentation is a major construct for efficient maintenance management and a prerequisite for the adoption of DT in the management of healthcare constructed facilities in developing countries.
Development of Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECCs) Incorporating Iron Ore Tailings as Eco-Friendly Aggregates
Authors: Liu Kangning , Wang Sheliang , Quan Xiaoyi , Wu Jing , Xu Jin , Zhao Nan , Liu Bo
Published: May 2023

In this study, iron ore tailings (IOTs) are used as aggregates to prepare iron-ore-tailing-engineered cementitious composites (IOT-ECCs) to achieve clean production. Some mechanical indexes, such as compressive strength (fcu), four-point flexural strength (ff), axial compressive strength (fc), deformation properties, flexural toughness, and stress–strain behavior, are studied. The mass loss, fcu loss, relative dynamic modulus elasticity (RDEM), and deterioration mechanism after the sulfate freeze–thaw (F-T) cycle are discussed in detail. In addition, pore structure analysis is performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), while a scanning electron microscope (SEM) is utilized to study the micro-morphology. The results showed that under the 20–80% IOT replacement ratio, IOT-ECCs exhibited improvements in their mechanical properties, pore structure, and resistance to sulfate freeze–thaw (F-T). The most notable mechanical properties and sulfate F-T resistance were demonstrated by the IOT-ECC with 40% IOTs (namely, IOT40-P2.0). Meanwhile, IOT40-P2.0 exhibited good pore structure as well as the bonding interface of the PF and the matrix. The pore structure and compactness of the matrix of IOT-ECCs gradually deteriorated as the F-T cycle increased. The research results will promote the application of IOTs in ECCs.
Application and Analysis of a Heat Pump System for Building Heating and Cooling Using Extracting Heat Energy from Untreated Sewage
Authors: Zhuang Zhaoyi , Zhao Jin , Mi Fengfeng , Zhang Teng , Hao Yuguo , Li Shangyue
Published: May 2023

Heat pump technology can extract low-level heat energy from urban sewage to heat or cool buildings, which can alleviate the two major problems of energy shortage and environmental pollution to a certain extent. This paper introduces the principle of wastewater source heat pump technology and summarizes the current common system forms and their key core technologies. The proposed special heat transfer technology for sewage can effectively solve the problem of blockage and corrosion in the process of sewage heat transfer. Taking the system of an office building in Qingdao as an example, the system design parameter is introduced in detail. The operation monitoring of the heating and air conditioning seasons of this project was completed through a data collection system, and various performance parameters of the system were studied and analyzed. The data was obtained using measured data from one year of system operation. The testing results show that the sewage temperature of the heat pump system in winter is approx. 13.5 °C, the hot water supply temperature is approx. 50 °C, the average COP of the unit is 3.95, and the average COP of the system is 2.96. The calculation results show that the heating energy consumption of the heat pump unit is only 50.81% of that of a traditional heating mode coal-fired boiler and 57.57% of that of an air source heat pump system. In summer, the sewage temperature is approx. 22 °C, the cold-water supply temperature is approx. 5.5 °C, the average COP of the unit is 4.45, and the average COP of the system is 3.25. The cooling energy consumption of the heat pump system is 79.39% of the energy consumption of the traditional chiller and 61.56% of the cooling energy consumption of the air source heat pump system. This shows that the sewage source heat pump system has a remarkable energy-saving effect.
A Finite Element Method Integrated with Terzaghi’s Principle to Estimate Settlement of a Building Due to Tunnel Construction
Authors: Rodríguez César A. , Rodríguez-Pérez Ángel M. , López Raúl , Hernández-Torres José Antonio , Caparrós-Mancera Julio J.
Published: May 2023

This study presents the application of the finite element method integrated with Terzaghi’s principle. The definition of a model in oedometric or confinement conditions for settlement estimation of a building after the construction of a tunnel, including the effect of Terzaghi’s principle, is an unresolved problem. The objectives of this work include the demonstration of the need for a minimum of three methodological states to estimate said settlement. For this, a specific methodology is applied to a case study, with eight load steps and four types of coarse-grained soils. In the studied case, two layers of 50 m and 5 m with different degrees of saturation are overlaying an assumed impermeable rock layer. The excavation of a tunnel of 15 m in diameter at a depth of 30 m with drainage lining inside the tunnel is assumed. The minimum distance from the tunnel’s outline to the mat foundation is 15.8 m. It is determined that the settlement, according to Terzaghi’s principle, is around 11% of the total settlement for the most compacted soil types, reaching 35% for the loose soil type, from the tunnel’s outline. In the mat foundation, it implies an increase in the differential settlement of up to 12%. It shows a nonlinear relationship between some of the variables in the analysis. To detect the collapse due to uplifting the tunnel invert, it was determined that it was not appropriate to model in oedometric conditions. The novelty of the investigation relies on identifying and determining the need for a minimum of three states for methodological purposes for a proper quantification of the total settlement: (i) before the construction of the tunnel, (ii) immediately after the excavation of the tunnel, but without groundwater inflow into the tunnel, and (iii) after the tunnelling, with stabilised groundwater inflow into the tunnel.
Experimental Investigation of Compound Effect of Flexural and Torsion on Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Al-Salim Nabeel H. , Jaber Muna H. , Hassan Rafea F. , Mohammed Nisreen S. , Hussein Husam H.
Published: May 2023

Fiber-reinforced concrete is widely acknowledged for its ability to resist cracking effectively and limit its propagation. By preventing cracks from spreading, the addition of fiber composites to concrete can enhance its extensibility and tensile strength, not only at the initial point of cracking but also at its maximum capacity. Additionally, the fibers in fiber-reinforced concrete are capable of binding the matrix, even when exposed to significant cracking. However, there is limited information available about the behavior of fiber-reinforced concrete under a bending moment combined with torsion. This study aims to investigate the structural behavior of fiber-reinforced concrete members subjected to a bending moment with a torsion to moment ratio equal to 1. Synthetic and steel fibers of 1.0% content with different lengths (19, 35, and 55 mm for synthetic fiber and 13 mm for straight and hook steel fibers) were mixed with concrete mixtures to examine the effects of fiber lengths and types on the concrete beam performance. Test results indicated that the fiber-reinforced concrete beams showed higher cracking moments than the normal-strength concrete beam. The steel fiber with a hooked configuration reinforced beam showed increased moment capacity and total torsional toughness higher than that of the straight steel fiber-reinforced beam. The synthetic fiber of a 55 mm length reinforced beam exhibited the highest first-crack and ultimate moment values among other tested beams. The test results were compared with past research models for the moment capacity of beams under the compound effect of bending and torsion and we modified these values with another factor that represented the fiber length influence on beam capacity, as suggested in past research. The comparison between the ultimate moment of the test results and the moment predicted from the modified past research model presented a good correlation.
Clinical Meaning of Stromal Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (sTIL) in Early Luminal B Breast Cancer
Authors: García-Torralba Esmeralda , Pérez Ramos Miguel , Ivars Rubio Alejandra , Navarro-Manzano Esther , Blaya Boluda Noel , de la Morena Barrio Pilar , García-Garre Elisa , Martínez Díaz Francisco , Chaves-Benito Asunción , García-Martínez Elena , Ayala de la Peña Francisco
Published: May 2023

Luminal breast cancer (BC) is associated with less immune activation, and the significance of stromal lymphocytic infiltration (sTIL) is more uncertain than in other BC subtypes. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive and prognostic value of sTIL in early luminal BC. The study was performed with an observational design in a prospective cohort of 345 patients with predominantly high-risk luminal (hormone receptor positive, HER2 negative) BC and with luminal B features (n = 286), in which the presence of sTIL was analyzed with validated methods. Median sTIL infiltration was 5% (Q1–Q3 range (IQR), 0–10). We found that sTIL were associated with characteristics of higher biological and clinical aggressiveness (tumor and lymph node proliferation and stage, among others) and that the percentage of sTIL was predictive of pathologic complete response in patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (OR: 1.05, 95%CI 1.02–1.09, p < 0.001). The inclusion of sTIL (any level of lymphocytic infiltration: sTIL > 0%) in Cox regression multivariable prognostic models was associated with a shorter relapse-free interval (HR: 4.85, 95%CI 1.33–17.65, p = 0.016) and significantly improved its performance. The prognostic impact of sTIL was independent of other clinical and pathological variables and was mainly driven by its relevance in luminal B BC.
Laparoscopic Right Hemihepatectomy after Future Liver Remnant Modulation: A Single Surgeon’s Experience
Authors: Hoogteijling Tijs J. , Sijberden Jasper P. , Primrose John N. , Morrison-Jones Victoria , Modi Sachin , Zimmitti Giuseppe , Garatti Marco , Sallemi Claudio , Morone Mario , Abu Hilal Mohammad
Published: May 2023

Background: Laparoscopic right hemihepatectomy (L-RHH) is still considered a technically complex procedure, which should only be performed by experienced surgeons in specialized centers. Future liver remnant modulation (FLRM) strategies, including portal vein embolization (PVE), and associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS), might increase the surgical difficulty of L-RHH, due to the distortion of hepatic anatomy, periportal inflammation, and fibrosis. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the safety and feasibility of L-RHH after FLRM, when compared with ex novo L-RHH. Methods: All consecutive right hemihepatectomies performed by a single surgeon in the period between October 2007 and March 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes of L-RHH after FLRM and ex novo L-RHH were compared. Results: A total of 59 patients were included in the analysis, of whom 33 underwent FLRM. Patients undergoing FLRM prior to L-RHH were most often male (93.9% vs. 42.3%, p < 0.001), had an ASA-score >2 (45.5% vs. 9.5%, p = 0.006), and underwent a two-stage hepatectomy (45.5% vs. 3.8% p < 0.001). L-RHH after FLRM was associated with longer operative time (median 360 vs. 300 min, p = 0.008) and Pringle duration (31 vs. 24 min, p = 0.011). Intraoperative blood loss, unfavorable intraoperative incidents, and conversion rates were similar in both groups. There were no significant differences in length of hospital stay and 30-day overall and severe morbidity rates. Radical resection margin (R0) and textbook outcome rates were equal. One patient who underwent an extended RHH in the FLRM group deceased within 90 days of surgery, due to post-hepatectomy liver failure. Conclusion: L-RHH after FLRM is more technically complex than L-RHH ex novo, as objectified by longer operative time and Pringle duration. Nevertheless, this procedure appears safe and feasible in experienced hands.
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)-Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) As a Biomarker for Lymphoid Malignancy with HCV Infection
Authors: Tsutsumi Yutaka , Ito Shinichi , Shiratori Souichi , Teshima Takanori
Published: May 2023

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is potentially associated with liver cancer, and advances in various drugs have led to progress in the treatment of hepatitis C and attempts to prevent its transition to liver cancer. Furthermore, reactivation of HCV has been observed in the treatment of lymphoma, during which the immortalization and proliferation of lymphocytes occur, which leads to the possibility of further stimulating cytokines and the like and possibly to the development of lymphoid malignancy. There are also cases in which the disappearance of lymphoid malignancy has been observed by treating HCV and suppressing HCV-Ribonucleic acid (RNA), as well as cases of recurrence with an increase in HCV-RNA. While HCV-associated lymphoma has a poor prognosis, improving the prognosis with Direct Acting Antivirals (DAA) has recently been reported. The reduction and eradication of HCV-RNA by means of DAA is thus important for the treatment of lymphoid malignancy associated with HCV infection, and HCV-RNA can presumably play a role as a biomarker. This review provides an overview of what is currently known about HCV-associated lymphoma, its epidemiology, the mechanisms underlying the progression to lymphoma, its treatment, the potential and limits of HCV-RNA as a therapeutic biomarker, and biomarkers that are expected now that DAA therapy has been developed.
Midterm Results of High-Dose-Rate Intraoperative Brachytherapy in the Treatment of Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Dammerer Dietmar , Neugebauer Johannes , Braito Matthias , Wagner Moritz , Neubauer Markus , Moser Lukas , Süß Markus , Liebensteiner Michael , Putzer David
Published: May 2023

Introduction: According to the literature only sparse data are available on the use of high-dose-rate intraoperative brachytherapy (IOHDR-BT) as a boost to external-beam irradiation (EBRT) in combination with a wide resection in patients with high-grade soft tissue sarcomas (STS). Materials and Methods: Applying a retrospective study design, we investigated all patients who between 2010 and 2016 underwent marginal resection of a high-grade STS and intraoperative radiotherapy, followed by EBRT. We included only patients with a traceable follow-up time of at least two years. Of 89 patients, 35 met our inclusion criteria and showed an average follow-up of four years. Results: We found an overall 2-year local control rate of 94.3%. The local recurrence rate for R0 resections was 6%, whereas recurrences occurred in 13% of R1 resections and in 100% of R2 resections. One affected patient received only intraoperative radiotherapy. The recurrence rate by tumour entity was 36% for LPS, 11% for myxofibrosarcoma and 17% for undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. Conclusion: The treatment regimen consisting of limb-preserving surgery, IORT and pre- or postoperative radiotherapy consistently shows excellent local control rates.
mRNA-Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Delivery of Humanized EpCAM-CD3 Bispecific Antibody Significantly Blocks Colorectal Cancer Tumor Growth
Authors: Golubovskaya Vita , Sienkiewicz John , Sun Jinying , Huang Yanwei , Hu Liang , Zhou Hua , Harto Hizkia , Xu Shirley , Berahovich Robert , Bodmer Walter , Wu Lijun
Published: May 2023

The epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is often overexpressed in many types of tumors, including colorectal cancer. We sequenced and humanized an EpCAM mouse antibody and used it to develop bispecific EpCAM-CD3 antibodies. Three different designs were used to generate bispecific antibodies such as EpCAM-CD3 CrossMab knob-in-hole, EpCAM ScFv-CD3 ScFv (BITE), and EpCAM ScFv-CD3 ScFv-human Fc designs. These antibody designs showed strong and specific binding to the EpCAM-positive Lovo cell line and T cells, specifically killed EpCAM-positive Lovo cells and not EpCAM-negative Colo741 cells in the presence of T cells, and increased T cells’ IFN-gamma secretion in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, transfection of HEK-293 cells with EpCAM ScFv-CD3 ScFv human Fc mRNA-LNPs resulted in antibody secretion that killed Lovo cells and did not kill EpCAM-negative Colo741 cells. The antibody increased IFN-gamma secretion against Lovo target cells and did not increase it against Colo741 target cells. EpCAM-CD3 hFc mRNA-LNP transfection of several cancer cell lines (A1847, C30, OVCAR-5) also demonstrated functional bispecific antibody secretion. In addition, intratumoral delivery of the EpCAM-CD3 human Fc mRNA-LNPs into OVCAR-5 tumor xenografts combined with intravenous injection of T cells significantly blocked xenograft tumor growth. Thus, EpCAM-CD3 hFc mRNA-LNP delivery to tumor cells shows strong potential for future clinical studies.
Nectin-4 as a Predictive Marker for Poor Prognosis of Endometrial Cancer with Mismatch Repair Impairment
Authors: Chang Ha Kyun , Park Young Hoon , Choi Jung-A , Kim Jeong Won , Kim Jisup , Kim Hyo Sun , Lee Hae Nam , Cho Hanbyoul , Chung Joon-Yong , Kim Jae-Hoon
Published: May 2023

The adhesion molecule Nectin-4 is a new potential therapeutic target for different types of cancer; however, little is known about its diagnosis significance in endometrial cancer (EC). We found that Nectin-4 expression was significantly higher in EC tissues than in nonadjacent normal tissue. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value of 0.922 indicated good diagnostic accuracy for Nectin-4 expression in EC. Furthermore, Nectin-4 expression was associated with DNA mismatch repair (MMR) protein deficiency. Notably, the high Nectin-4 expression group of patients with MSH2/6-deficient EC had shorter progression-free survival than that of the low Nectin-4 expression group. The number of lymphovascular space invasion-positive patients in groups with MMR deficiency and high Nectin-4 expression was also increased compared with that in the low Nectin-4 expression group. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that alteration in Nectin-4 and MMR genes is associated with Nectin-4 expression in EC. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that Nectin-4 expression may be a potential biomarker for EC diagnosis and that high Nectin-4 expression in MMR-deficient patients with EC can predict short progression-free survival, thus providing clues to identify patients for adjuvant therapy.
Electrochemical Characterisation of the Photoanode Containing TiO2 and SnS2 in the Presence of Various Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Radić Gabrijela , Perović Klara , Sharifi Tayebeh , Kušić Hrvoje , Kovačić Marin , Kraljić Roković Marijana
Published: May 2023

In this work, the behaviour of photoanodes made of TiO2, SnS2 and TiO2/SnS2 was examined in the presence and absence of pharmaceuticals diclofenac (DCF), memantine hydrochloride (MEM) and salicylic acid (SA). The focus of the current research is on the following photoelectrochemical (PEC) characterisation methods: linear polarisation, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and open circuit potential (OCP) monitoring. Linear polarisation and EIS provided useful information about the interaction between the pharmaceuticals and the photocatalytic materials. The presence of the selected pharmaceuticals affects the OCP value, mainly due to the pH change. The results obtained by PEC characterisation were compared to the photocatalytic (PC) efficiency of pharmaceutical degradation. In addition to the photocurrent response, the linear voltammogram indicates the electrochemical oxidation of DCF and SA. Geometry optimizations using density functional theory (DFT) showed that the HOMO orbitals’ position of DCF and SA are above the position of the TiO2 HOMO level and below the position of the SnS2 HOMO level. Due to this, the characteristic current peak for DCF and SA was registered, but only for TiO2 and TiO2/SnS2 photoanodes. The oxidation current peak was not registered for MEM, although h+ scavenging properties were noticed for TiO2 in the presence of MEM. Apparently, this is an interplay between the protonated and non-protonated forms of MEM and the differences in their HOMO positions.
Chemical Sensor Based on Piezoelectric/Triboelectric Nanogenerators: A Review of the Modular Design Strategy
Authors: Zhao Zequan , Zhu Qiliang , Lu Yin , Mi Yajun , Cao Xia , Wang Ning
Published: May 2023

Piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators (P-TENGs) have emerged as promising technologies for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, with potential applications in self-powered wearable and environmental monitoring devices. Modular design in P-TENGs, characterized by the flexible assembly and customization of device components, enables the development of sustainable and versatile chemical sensors. In this review, we focus on the role of modularity in P-TENG-based chemical sensing, discussing how it enhances design flexibility, sensing versatility, scalability, and integration with other technologies. We explore the various strategies for functionalizing P-TENGs with specific recognition elements, facilitating selective and sensitive detection of target chemicals such as gases, biochemicals, or biomolecules. Furthermore, we examine the integration of modular P-TENGs with energy storage devices, signal conditioning circuits, and wireless communication modules, highlighting the potential for creating advanced, self-powered sensing systems. Finally, we address the challenges and future directions in the development of modular P-TENG-based chemical sensors (PCS and TCS), emphasizing the importance of improving selectivity, stability, and reproducibility for practical applications.
Organic Luminescent Sensor for Mercury(II) and Iron(III) Ions in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Kanan Sofian , Shabnam Aysha , Mohamed Ahmed A. , Abu-Yousef Imad A.
Published: May 2023

The substrate N1, N3, N5-tris(2-hydroxyphenyl)benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamide (Sensor A) was prepared in the reaction of 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid (trimesic acid) and o-aminophenol in ethanol. The prepared organic sensor fulfills the chemiluminescent requirements including a luminophore, spacer, and suitable binding receptor that distress the probe’s luminescent features, providing selective and sensitive detection of mercury and iron ions in aqueous solutions. The sensor selectively detects mercury and iron ions in a water matrix containing various metal ions, including sodium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and nickel. Strong and immediate binding was observed between mercury ions and the substrate at pH 7.0 with a binding affinity toward Hg2+ 9-fold higher than that observed for iron sensor binding affinity, which makes the substrate a distinctive luminescence sensor for mercury detection at ambient conditions. The sensor shows a linear response toward Hg2+ in the concentration range from 50 ppb to 100 ppm (2.0 × 10−8 to 4.2 × 10−5 M) with a limit of detection of 2 ppb (1.0 × 10−8 M). Further, Sensor A provides linear detection for iron ions in the range from 10 ppb to 1000 ppm (1.5 × 10−8 to 1.5 × 10−3 M). The measured adsorption capacity of Sensor A toward mercury ions ranged from 1.25 to 1.97 mg/g, and the removal efficiency from water samples reached 98.8% at pH 7.0. The data demonstrate that Sensor A is an excellent probe for detecting and removing mercury ions from water bodies.
A Novel Nanoplatform Based on Biofunctionalized MNPs@UCNPs for Sensitive and Rapid Detection of Shigella
Authors: Song Yaqi , Chen Min , Yan Zhongyu , Han Lu , Pan Leiqing , Tu Kang
Published: May 2023

Shigella, a typical and fatal foodborne pathogen with strong infectivity and survivability in foodstuff, demands a simple and sensitive detecting method. In this study, we reported a novel nanoplatform based on biofunctionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) modified upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for rapid and specific determination of Shigella. Due to base pairing, Shigella aptamer-functionalized horseradish peroxidase (HRP) combined with complementary strand-modified MNPs@UCNPs. In the absence of Shigella, HRP associated with MNPs@UCNPs were magnetically separated, and colorless 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) was oxidized into blue oxTMB. The overlap between oxTMB’s absorption peak and MNPs@UCNPs’ emission peak caused the fluorescence quenching at 545 nm. The MNPs@UCNPs fluorescence biosensor was achieved to detect Shigella in 1 h, with a limit of detection of 32 CFU/mL. This work showed a rapid and specific sensing platform and produced satisfactory chicken sample results.
Electrochemical Mercury Biosensor Based on Electrocatalytic Properties of Prussian Blue and Inhibition of Catalase
Authors: Virbickas Povilas , Dėnas Narvydas , Valiūnienė Aušra
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a detailed study of a novel type of electrochemical mercury ion (Hg2+) biosensor developed by combining Prussian blue (PB) and catalase (Cat). The simultaneous PB-catalyzed reduction of hydrogen peroxide and the inhibition of catalase by Hg2+ ions were used as the working principle of the biosensor. The biosensor described in this research was capable of detecting Hg2+ ions at relatively low potentials (+0.2 V vs. Ag|AgCl, KClsat) using chronoamperometry and a fast Fourier transform electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (FFT-EIS). Linear ranges of 0.07 mM–3 mM and 0.13 mM–0.80 mM of Hg2+ ions were obtained using amperometric and impedimetric techniques, respectively. In the course of this work, an amperometric study of the Hg2+ ion biosensor was also carried out on a real sample (tap water containing Hg2+ ions).
Adolescence as the Context for Understanding Young Mothers’ Engagement with Health Promotion: A Phenomenological Exploration
Authors: Ellis Catherine , Sidebotham Peter
Published: May 2023

Background: The current social construction of young mothers is generally negative, pointing to a lack of engagement with universal services and poor outcomes for their infants and children. However, qualitative studies offer an alternative, more positive construct of young motherhood. Understanding the context of young motherhood can improve the relevance and efficacy of health promotion directed to this group of high-risk mothers. Aim: To explore the lived experience of young women transitioning to motherhood to better understand their experiences and perspective; and what influences their engagement with health promotion aimed to support safer parenting practices and whether their behaviour changes over time with exposure to parenting health promotion. Method: Longitudinal Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used with five first-time mothers identified with characteristics known to influence poorer outcomes for infants and children such as low educational achievement and economic disadvantage. Participants aged 16 to 19 years were recruited antenatally. Serial in-depth interviews were conducted at three time points during the ante- and post-natal periods. Interviews were transcribed and data were analysed inductively following the prescribed method of double hermeneutic analysis for IPA. Finding: Three themes were identified from the full study: Transition, Information, and Fractured application; the focus of this paper is Transition. Transition revealed that becoming mothers impacted key adolescent developmental tasks; their identity and relationships were significantly affected, both positively and negatively and adolescent brain development influenced behaviour and decision making capability. Adolescence influenced how these young mothers engaged with and interpreted parenting health promotion messages. Conclusions: Young mothers in this study operate within the context of adolescence. Adolescence impacts participants’ decision making activity and early parenting behaviours which informs the debate on why young mothers may fail to reduce risks for their infants. This insight can contribute to the development of more effective health promotion/educational strategies, and support professionals to better engage with this high-risk group to improve early parenting behaviour and subsequently improve outcomes for their infants and children.
Temperature, Humidity and Air Pollution Relationships during a Period of Rainy and Dry Seasons in Lagos, West Africa
Authors: Emekwuru Nwabueze , Ejohwomu Obuks
Published: May 2023

Air pollution is a concern in the West Africa region where it is known that meteorological parameters such as ambient temperature and humidity can affect the particulate matter loading through atmospheric convection and dry deposition. In this study, we extend the investigation of these relationships to particulate matter less than 1 µm in diameter (PM1), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitrogen monoxide (NO) and ozone (O3), for a complete period of rainy and dry seasons in Lagos. Regression analysis of the results indicate that there is a negligible to weak correlation (r < 0.39) between the temperature, humidity and air pollutants during the year, except for NO2 and O3 which respond moderately to humidity during the dry season, an observation previously unreported. The mean monthly values for all the air pollutants are lower during the rainy season compared to the dry season, indicating a potential higher contribution of the transport of pollutants from the north-eastern desert regions and the reduction of the wet removal of particles during the dry season. The World Health Organization air quality guidelines are mostly exceeded for fine particles with diameters less than 2.5 µm (PM2.5), supporting previous studies, as well as for the NO2 concentration levels. As PM2.5 contributes to at least 70% of the particulate matter pollution throughout the year, policy guidelines could be enacted for people with chronic respiratory issues during the January/February months of intense high air pollution, high temperature but low humidity values.
Investigating the Cultural Impact on Predicting Crowd Behavior
Authors: Muhdher Fatima Jafar , Abulnaja Osama Ahmed , Baothman Fatmah Abdulrahman
Published: May 2023

The Cultural Crowd–Artificial Neural Network (CC-ANN) takes the cultural dimensions of a crowd into account, based on Hofstede Cultural Dimensions (HCDs), to predict social and physical behavior concerning cohesion, collectivity, speed, and distance. This study examines the impact of applying the CC-ANN learning model on more cultures to test the effect of predicting crowd behavior and the relationships among their characteristics. Our previous work which applied the CC-ANN only included eight nations using the six HCDs. In this paper, we including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the CC-ANN as a new culture which aided a comparative study with four HCDs, with and without the UAE, using Mean Squared Error (MSE) for evaluation. The results indicated that most of the best-case experiments involved the UAE having the lowest MSE: 0.127, 0.014, and 0.010, which enhanced the CC-ANN model’s ability to predict crowd behavior. Moreover, the links between the cultural, sociological, and physical properties of crowds can be seen from a broader perspective with stronger correlations using the CC-ANN in more countries with diverse cultures.
The COVID-19 Infection Resulted Delayed Esophagogastroduodenoscopy in Patients Admitted with Variceal Bleeding: Hospital-Based Outcomes of a National Database
Authors: Gandhi Mustafa , Tarar Zahid Ijaz , Farooq Umer , Saleem Saad , Chela Harleen Kaur , Daglilar Ebubekir
Published: May 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, most healthcare services, including inpatient and outpatient procedures, got delayed. We reviewed the effect of COVID-19 infection on the timing of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in variceal bleeding patients and analyzed the complications of delayed EGD. Using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) 2020, we identified patients admitted for variceal bleeding with COVID-19 infection. We performed a multivariable regression analysis and adjusted it for patient and hospital-related variables. The International Classification of Disease Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes were used for patient selection. We measured the effect of COVID-19 on the timing of EGD and further analyzed the effect of delayed EGD on hospital-based outcomes. A total of 49,675 patients diagnosed with variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding were analyzed, out of which 915 (1.84%) were COVID-19 positive. Variceal bleeding patients who were COVID-positive had a significantly lower rate of EGD performed within the first 24 h of admission (36.1% vs. 60.6% p = 0.001) compared to the patients who tested negative for COVID-19. The performance of EGD within 24 h of admission resulted in a decrease in all-cause mortality by 70% (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.30, 95% CI 0.12–0.76, p = 0.01) compared to EGD after 24 h. A significant decrease was noted in the odds of ICU admission rate (AOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.14–0.97, p = 0.04) in patients who got EGD within the first 24 h of admission. No difference in odds of sepsis (AOR 0.44, 95% CI 0.15–1.30, p = 0.14) and vasopressor use (AOR 0.34, 95% CI 0.04–2.87, p = 0.32) was seen in COVID positive vs. COVID negative group. The hospital mean length of stay (2.14 days, 95% CI 4.35–0.06, p = 0.06), mean total charges ($51,936, 95% CI $106,688–$2816, p = 0.06), and total cost (11,489$, 95% CI 30,380$–7402$, p = 0.23) was similar in both COVID-positive and -negative groups. In our study, we found that the presence of COVID-19 infection in variceal bleeding patients resulted in a significant delay in EGD compared to COVID-negative patients. This delay in EGD resulted in increased all-cause mortality and intensive care unit admissions.
Entropy of Financial Time Series Due to the Shock of War
Authors: Drzazga-Szczȩśniak Ewa A. , Szczepanik Piotr , Kaczmarek Adam Z. , Szczȩśniak Dominik
Published: May 2023

The concept of entropy is not uniquely relevant to the statistical mechanics but, among others, it can play pivotal role in the analysis of a time series, particularly the stock market data. In this area, sudden events are especially interesting as they describe abrupt data changes with potentially long-lasting effects. Here, we investigate the impact of such events on the entropy of financial time series. As a case study, we assume data of the Polish stock market, in the context of its main cumulative index, and discuss it for the finite time periods before and after outbreak of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. This analysis allows us to validate the entropy-based methodology in assessing changes in the market volatility, as driven by the extreme external factors. We show that some qualitative features of such market variations can be well captured in terms of the entropy. In particular, the discussed measure appears to highlight differences between data of the two considered timeframes in agreement with the character of their empirical distributions, which is not always the case in terms of the conventional standard deviation. Moreover, the entropy of cumulative index averages, qualitatively, the entropies of composing assets, suggesting capability for describing interdependencies between them. The entropy is also found to exhibit signatures of the upcoming extreme events. To this end, the role of recent war in shaping the current economic situation is briefly discussed.
Winning a CHSH Game without Entangled Particles in a Finite Number of Biased Rounds: How Much Luck Is Needed?
Authors: Gallus Christoph , Blasiak Pawel , Pothos Emmanuel M.
Published: May 2023

Quantum games, such as the CHSH game, are used to illustrate the puzzle and power of entanglement. These games are played over many rounds and in each round, the participants, Alice and Bob, each receive a question bit to which they each have to give an answer bit, without being able to communicate during the game. When all possible classical answering strategies are analyzed, it is found that Alice and Bob cannot win more than 75% of the rounds. A higher percentage of wins arguably requires an exploitable bias in the random generation of the question bits or access to “non-local“ resources, such as entangled pairs of particles. However, in an actual game, the number of rounds has to be finite and question regimes may come up with unequal likelihood, so there is always a possibility that Alice and Bob win by pure luck. This statistical possibility has to be transparently analyzed for practical applications such as the detection of eavesdropping in quantum communication. Similarly, when Bell tests are used in macroscopic situations to investigate the connection strength between system components and the validity of proposed causal models, the available data are limited and the possible combinations of question bits (measurement settings) may not be controlled to occur with equal likelihood. In the present work, we give a fully self-contained proof for a bound on the probability to win a CHSH game by pure luck without making the usual assumption of only small biases in the random number generators. We also show bounds for the case of unequal probabilities based on results from McDiarmid and Combes and numerically illustrate certain exploitable biases.
Navigating University: The Design and Evaluation of a Holistic Support Programme for Autistic Students in Higher Education
Authors: Brownlow Charlotte , Martin Neil , Thompson Donna-Marie , Dowe Amelia , Abawi Ding , Harrison Jessica , March Sonja
Published: May 2023

Successfully engaging with university study can be challenging for autistic students and has been highlighted in the research literature as an area of concern. This study sought to address support for autistic students at one Australian university through the development of a bespoke programme called A-Skills. The programme was co-designed with autistic students drawing on principles of self-determination theory and it aimed to develop study and student life skills. This paper presents a longitudinal evaluation of the programme using semi-structured interviews and user engagement metrics from the online platform. Our findings indicated that engagement with the programme varied between individuals but adopting a principle of co-design ensured that the topics of focus were important to the needs of the students it sought to support. Further, interview data suggested both positive sentiment and value towards the initiative amongst participants. Although online delivery enabled choice, there were potential challenges in fostering relatedness, which was addressed to some degree through synchronous online weekly sessions facilitated by an autistic student. Core to the success of A-Skills is the co-design approach as a central principle in the design, development and evaluation of the programme. With continued research and iterative design, the programme could be adopted more widely.
Digital Assessment in Technology-Enriched Education: Thematic Review
Authors: Jurāne-Brēmane Anžela
Published: May 2023

Digital assessment has become relevant as part of the digital learning process, as technology provides not only teaching and learning but also assessment, including productive feedback. With the rapid development of educational technology and the expansion of related research, there is a lack of research-based clarification of aspects of digital assessment without considering the impact of temporary pandemic solutions. The purpose of this thematic review is to summarize key features in studies over a specified period of time (2018–2021); consequently, it does not offer completely new knowledge, but captures essential knowledge of the last few years before the pandemic to avoid losing a significant aspect of digital assessment due to temporary pandemic solutions. The review results in a description of digital assessment that includes its conditions, opportunities and challenges, as well as other characteristics. The findings confirm the importance of digital assessment in the modern educational process and will increase the understanding of digital assessment among those involved in education (administrators, educators and researchers), inviting them to consider possible pedagogical principles. Furthermore, these findings are now comparable to and should be supplemented with post-pandemic insights and knowledge.
Rising to the Challenge of Creating Equitable, Inclusive, and Compassionate School Communities in the Recovery Phase of the Pandemic: The Role of Aspiring Headteachers
Authors: Mowat Joan G. , Beck Anna
Published: May 2023

Concerns have been raised globally about the impact of the pandemic on the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people (CYP). How prospective headteachers rose to the challenge posed by the pandemic in supporting the wellbeing of their school communities and reaching out to the most vulnerable CYP and families during the recovery phase is the focus of this paper. It is a longitudinal, principally qualitative study conducted in two phases with 60 former students of the Into Headship programme in Scotland. Phase 2 of the study drew on the accounts of eight students drawn from the primary, secondary, and special education sectors using individual interviews and focus group discussions. This paper draws on the accounts of three secondary sector participants in interview. Data were analysed via thematic analysis using a modified framework of King and Horrocks. The respondents had encountered a wide range of challenges and had been highly proactive in their approach through adopting both targeted and universal approaches to meeting need and addressing inequalities. The findings of this paper should inform the development of headship preparation programmes globally and the responses of schools in the recovery phase, furthering our understanding as to what constitutes inclusion in education.