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This article presents the creation of the 'Digitization of Gandharan Artefact Thesaurus', a digital resource for the description of Gandharan art and - more generally - of Buddhist art. It was developed by the project 'Digitisation of Gandharan Artefacts: A project for the preservation and the study of the Buddhist art of Pakistan' (DiGA). This work has been realized by walking Seven Steps, a serendipitous coincidence pairing our work to a famous episode in the early life of the Buddha. Our Seven Steps are. 1. Collection and selection of sources, both digital and printed. 2. Creation of the core of the Thesaurus by digitizing the Repertorio Iconografico per la schedatura dell'arte gandharica. 3. Modifying, enriching, and structuring the Repertorio in RDF/SKOS. 4. Implementation of a hierarchy of concepts for narrative scenes ("narratives"). 5. Implementation of a hierarchy of concepts for characters ("figures"). 6. Comparison and reconciliation with other already existing digital thesauri. 7. Collaboration with other projects and institutions. The DiGA Thesaurus marks an important milestone towards a new vision of Gandharan studies in which the availability of digitized collections will foster new insights and understanding. Already during the creation of the Thesaurus, exciting new perspectives have opened in the field of both Gandharan studies and digital humanities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Coronavirus disease 2019 spreads worldwide and needs detection systems capable of rapid diagnostic of this virus (SARS-CoV-2). The aim of this study is to design the homemade RT-PCR method for the Detection and phylogenetic analysis of this virus Material & Methods: The genes selected for diagnosis were E and M genes for this virus. PCR product was cloned in pTZ57R/T plasmid for preparation of positive control. In order to determine the sensitivity of this molecular method, the genes mentioned in the clone pTZ57R/T vector and the Limit of detection (LOD) the genes were determined and phylogenetic analysis was performed using partial E and M gene sequences. Results: PCR product was observed for E and M genes 156 and 547 bp on the Agarose gel. The LOD of the E and M gene was 60 and 82 copies. There was also a positive response to the samples of patients who were positive by other methods. Conclusions: Since this virus is considered to be the cause of a pandemic in different countries all over the world, the present study is very important as a method of rapid and low-cost molecular diagnosis for monitoring this virus. Phylogenetic analysis is necessary for epidemiological studies for the control and prevention of the disease.

An image-based methodology is presented for the automatic generation of geometric building models at LOD4, incorporating both interior and exterior geometrical information. Existing approaches often focus on simplified geometries for either exteriors or interiors, leading to integration challenges due to data complexity and processing demands. This methodology addresses these challenges by utilizing three structure-from-motion models: one for the building exterior, one for the interior, and one for the entrance. The exterior and interior data are processed separately using planar primitives, and the models are subsequently aligned through a 3D point cloud registration method based on 2D image features. This ensures a unified coordinate system and accurate generation of the LOD4 model. The framework achieved a mean relative error of 3.06% and a mean absolute error of 0.05 m, underscoring its robustness for applications such as numerical modeling, construction management, and structural health monitoring, making it valuable for further advancements in building information models and digital twins. • Framework for automatically reconstructing LOD4 models of free-standing buildings. • Simplified methodology for generation of interior LOD (ILOD0) using unstructured point clouds. • Use of a 3D registration method using 2D image features to combine building interiors and exteriors. • Benchmark dataset for evaluating the generation of LOD4 models from point clouds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Polyurethanes incorporating triazole units with four distinct structures were synthesized via elimination reactions. • DATSA-PU was detected as a fluorescent sensor for Zn2+ among various metal ions. • LOD value of the sensor for Zn2+ion was calculated as 2.03 x 10-7 M. • LOI values of DATBA-PU, DATSA-PU, DATHNA-PU and DATOVA-PU were calculated to be 21.28, 30.66, 25.14 and 31.36, respectively. Polyurethanes are one of the most encountered polymer classes in both industry and scientific research, with their tremendous physical and chemical properties, as well as numerous advantages such as a wide range of raw materials, the ratio of groups to be used during polymerization and adjustable mechanical properties. In this study, four distinct polyurethanes were synthesized using toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and hexamethylenediisocyanate (HMDI) derived from Schiff bases formed by reacting 3,5-diamino-1,2,4-triazole (DAT) and 4 different aldehydes (2-hydroxybenzaldehyde, 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, 2-hydroxy napthaldehyde, o-vanillin). The structural characterizations of the synthesized Schiff bases and polyurethanes were elucidated using 1H- 13C NMR and FT-IR, thermal stability was assessed via TGA, molecular weights of the polymers were determined using GPC, electrochemical properties were evaluated by CV, and optical properties were examined using UV–Vis and fluorescence spectrophotometry. The molecular weights of polyurethanes ranged from 4500 to 10300 Da. TGA analysis of the synthesized polyurethanes demonstrated significant thermal stability, maintaining integrity up to 310 °C. The band gap energy (E' g) values of polyurethanes were found to range from 2.30 to 2.51 eV, which is lower than that of their corresponding monomers, exhibiting semiconductor properties. It was determined that DATSA-PU, one of the synthesized polyurethanes, exhibited potential as a "turn-on" fluorescent sensor for Zn2+ ion with a LOD value of 2.03 x 10-7 M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significance of Linked Open Data datasets for traffic information extends beyond just including open traffic data. It incorporates links to other relevant thematic datasets available on the web. This enables federated queries across different data platforms from various countries and sectors, such as transport, geospatial, environmental, weather, and more. Businesses, researchers, national operators, administrators, and citizens at large can benefit from having dynamic traffic open data connected to heterogeneous datasets across Member States. This paper focuses on the development of a semantic model that enhances the basic service to access open traffic data through a LOD-enhanced Traffic Information System in alignment with the ITS Directive (2010/40/EU). The objective is not limited to just viewing or downloading data but also to improve the extraction of meaningful information and enable other types of services that are only achievable through LOD. By structuring the information using the RDF format meant for machines and employing SPARQL for querying, LOD allows for comprehensive and unified access to all datasets. Considering that the European standard DATEX II is widely used in many priority areas and services mentioned in the ITS Directive, LOD DATEX II was developed as a complementary approach to DATEX II XML. This facilitates the accessibility and comprehensibility of European traffic data and services. As part of this development, an ontological model called dtx_srti, based on the DATEX II Ontology, was created to support these efforts.

Zeaxanthin is a naturally occurring xanthophyll carotenoid obtained from diet sources. Particularly, sweet corn is a major source of dietary zeaxanthin. To investigate the genetic basis of zeaxanthin content regulation in sweet corn, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population comprising 191 families was constructed using two inbred lines (K44 and F22) with contrasting zeaxanthin content in the grain. The zeaxanthin content in the dry grains of this population grown at different locations was determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Subsequently, 175 polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used to construct a linkage map with a total length of 4322.37 cM and with an average distance of 24.4 cM. A total of eight QTLs located on chromosomes 4, 5, 7, 9, and 10 were detected. The QTLs located in umc1632-umc1401 on chromosome 7 were detected in different environments and explained 11.28–20.25% of the phenotypic variation, implying it is the main QTL controlling zeaxanthin content in the dry grains of sweet corn. Collectively, the present study provides a genetic map and theoretical guidance for the cultivation of sweet corn varieties with a high zeaxanthin content.

In order to solve the problems of semantic-based underground mine entity modeling method, such as the lack of detail level division, the small degree of freedom of model configuration, and the lack of multi-scale fine expression, parametric modeling and semantic multi-scale ideas are applied to the construction of mine multi-level of detail (LOD) model, and a mine underground space modeling method based on semantic multi-scale is proposed. It is determined that the modeling object is the entity element in mine underground space. The modeling objects are divided into roadway model and in-roadway model according to the position of the entity element. The roadway model comprises a roadway main body model and other artificial structure models, and the in-roadway model comprises a mine facility model and an equipment model. The different semantic classes are defined according to the semantic information of the entity elements. The semantic classes are divided into families, and then the families are decomposed into component elements according to their functions. Each semantic class is described by quantifiable indicators such as semantic attributes, geometric attributes, appearance attributes and characteristic attributes. The mine LOD model is designed, which includes six levels of discrete LOD models, namely roadway network model, roadway rough model, roadway fine model, main facility model in roadway, main equipment model in roadway, and other equipment models in roadway. Combining the discrete LOD model with various attributes can clearly show the level of detail and the primary and secondary relationships of the mine LOD model. The mine underground space modeling method based on semantic multi-scale can provide entity element models with different detail richness, reduce the computational complexity of scene rendering and improve the efficiency and flexibility of model construction.

Abstract Background Polypharmacy is common in people with dementia. The use of psychotropic drugs (PDs) and other, potentially inappropriate medications is high. The aims of this cross-sectional study were 1) to investigate the use of drugs in people with advanced dementia (PWAD), living at home or in long term care (LTC); 2) to focus on PD use; and 3) to identify determinants of PD use. Methods The study was performed in the context of EPYLOGE (IssuEs in Palliative care for people in advanced and terminal stages of YOD and LOD in Germany). 191 PWAD were included. All drugs that were administered at the date of the examination were recorded. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified determinants of PD use. Results 96% of PWAD received medication with a median number of four drugs. 49.7% received five or more drugs. According to the Beers Criteria 39% of PWAD ≥ 65 years received at least one potentially inappropriate medication. 79% of PWAD were treated with PDs. Older PWAD and PWAD living in LTC facilities received significantly more drugs than younger PWAD, and PWAD living at home, respectively. Dementia etiology was significantly associated with the use of antipsychotics, antidepressants and sedative substances. Place of living was associated with the use of pain medication. Behavioral disturbances were associated with the use of antipsychotics and sedative substances. Conclusions To mitigate the dangers of polypharmacy and medication related harm, critical examination is required, whether a drug is indicated or not. Also, the deprescribing of drugs should be considered on a regular basis. Trial registration Clinicaltrial.gov, NCT03364179 . Registered 6 December 2017.

Aluminum (Al) is widely used in food industry, but excessive absorption of Al3+ causes many serious health problems. Therefore, it is of great significance to determine the specificity of Al3+. In this study, we designed and synthesized a water‐soluble perylene diimide derivative (PDI‐Phe) for monitoring Al3+ rapidly and visually. Through absorption and emission spectroscopy techniques, we systematically explored the properties and mechanism of the sensor to Al3+. The limit of detection (LOD) of Al3+ was as low as 6.54 nM. And with the existence of Al3+, electrostatic interaction and intermolecular π‐π stacking promoted the aggregation and fluorescence quenching of PDI‐Phe. Even in the presence of other analytes, PDI‐Phe still had excellent selectivity and sensitivity for Al3+ detection. Besides, it also had the characteristics of low cost, good water solubility, excellent chemical and optical stability, and easy synthesis. Finally, this method can be further applied to tap water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of four A2B corroles (where A = para-nitrophenyl, and B = 2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorophenyl, 2,6-difluoro, 2,6-dichloro and 2,6- dibromophenyl group) have been synthesized and characterized. These four corroles were tested for the sensing ability towards Hg2+ ion. The LOD for these corroles are comparable to reported sensors for Hg2+ ions. All these our A2B corroles exhibit different fluorescence quenching due to the electronic effect of the phenyl group at C10 position, which has a different halogen atom at 2,6 position of the phenyl ring. A2B free base corroles were synthesized, characterized, and demonstrated as Hg2+ ion sensors. These corroles are highly selective towards the Hg2+ ions and depend on the halogen group substituted on the meso phenyl group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we present a direct comparison of different dyes and assays for the determination of protein concentrations. We compared the classical Bradford assay with two modern assays based on the fluorogenic dyes QuDye and ProteOrange and showed that the Bradford reagent achieved excellent results in the determination of protein concentrations as compared with more modern rivals. We also showed that standard approaches for determining the limit of detection (LoD) and limit of quantification (LoQ) may not work correctly with the tested dyes. We proposed a new approach that extends the standard algorithm for LoD and LoQ determination. This approach works well with both classical colorimetric and fluorogenic dyes, as well as with nontrivial fluorescent probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Publishing BIM standards can facilitate the implementation of BIM construction projects. Their compilation, as in the article, allows to improve them, create or specify requirements. The publication of the international standard ISO 19650 for BIM resulted in numerous revisions to national guidelines. In the aspect of the degrees of detailing of BIM model is visible the development of their definition. Initially, they were divided according to the project phases, over time, into industries, and finally within the types of elements and separately for geometric and alphanumeric information, as well as the attached documentation. ISO 19650 uses the term Level of Information Need. Due to the quantity of global standards in various countries, the article focuses on the Oceania area and ISO 19650. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detecting physiological levels of neurotransmitters in biological samples can advance our understanding of brain disorders and lead to improved diagnostics and therapeutics. However, neurotransmitter sensors for real-world applications must reliably detect low concentrations of target analytes from small volume working samples. Herein, a platform for robust and ultrasensitive detection of dopamine, an essential neurotransmitter that underlies several brain disorders, based on graphene multitransistor arrays (gMTAs) functionalized with a selective DNA aptamer is presented. High-yield scalable methodologies optimized at the wafer level were employed to integrate multiple graphene transistors on small-size chips (4.5 × 4.5 mm). The multiple sensor array configuration permits independent and simultaneous replicate measurements of the same sample that produce robust average data, reducing sources of measurement variability. This procedure allowed sensitive and reproducible dopamine detection in ultra-low concentrations from small volume samples across physiological buffers and high ionic strength complex biological samples. The obtained limit-of-detection was 1 aM (10–18) with dynamic detection ranges spanning 10 orders of magnitude up to 100 µM (10–8), and a 22 mV/decade peak sensitivity in artificial cerebral spinal fluid. Dopamine detection in dopamine-depleted brain homogenates spiked with dopamine was also possible with a LOD of 1 aM, overcoming sensitivity losses typically observed in ion-sensitive sensors in complex biological samples. Furthermore, we show that our gMTAs platform can detect minimal changes in dopamine concentrations in small working volume samples (2 µL) of cerebral spinal fluid samples obtained from a mouse model of Parkinson's Disease. The platform presented in this work can lead the way to graphene-based neurotransmitter sensors suitable for real-world academic and pre-clinical pharmaceutical research as well as clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2017, the European Commission renewed the approval of glyphosate (GLY) but only for five years. GLY remains one of the most controversial and studied molecules. Method: A simplified method was tested for the determination of GLY in white rice (WR) and brown rice (BR), after extraction only with a methanol solution, by liquid chromatography coupled with inductively coupled mass triple quadrupole (HPLC-ICP-MS/MS) with a PRP-X100 anionic column. After performing a test on groundwater, the quantification of GLY in WR and BR was validated in terms of the LOD, LOQ, accuracy, precision, linearity, and the matrix effect. Results: The LOD was 0.0027 mg kg−1 for WR and 0.0136 mg kg−1 for BR. The LOQ was 0.0092 mg kg−1 for WR and 0.0456 mg kg−1 for BR. The mean recoveries were within 76–105% at three fortification levels. The relative standard deviation for the analysis (five replicates for three spike levels) was < 11% for both matrices. A linear response was confirmed in all cases in the entire concentration range (R2WR = 1.000 and R2BR = 0.9818). Conclusion: The proposed method could be considered useful for the determination of GLY in different types of rice and designed and adapted for other cereals. The matrix effect, quantified in BR matrix extraction, could be avoided by using a matrix-matched calibration line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we evaluated the performance of the in-house developed rRT-PCR assay for SARS-CoV-2 RNA targeting the envelope (E) and nucleocapsid (N) genes with internal control as human RNase P. A total of 50 positive samples and 50 negative samples of SARS-CoV-2 were tested by a reference kit at site 1 and a subset (30 positives and 16 negatives) of these samples are tested blindly at site 2. The limit of detection (LoD) was calculated by using a replication-deficient complete SARS-CoV-2 genome and known copy numbers, where Pseudo-virus samples were used to evaluate accuracy. On site 1, among the 50 SARS-CoV-2 positive samples 24, 18, and eight samples showed high (Ct < 26), moderate (26 < Ct ≤ 32), and low (32 < Ct ≤ 38) viral load, respectively, whereas in site 2, out of 30 SARS-CoV-2 positive samples, high, moderate, and low viral loads were found in each of the 10 samples. However, SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in the negative sample. So, in-house assays at both sites showed 100% sensitivity and specificity with no difference observed between RT PCR machines. The Ct values of the in-house kit had a very good correlation with the reference kits. LoD was determined as 100 copies/mL. It also displayed 100% accuracy in mutant and wild-type SARS-CoV-2 virus. This Bangasure™ RT-PCR kit shows excellent performance in detecting SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA compared to commercially imported CE-IVD marked FDA authorized kits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Computer-Aided Design & Computer Graphics / Jisuanji Fuzhu Sheji Yu Tuxingxue Xuebao is the property of Gai Kan Bian Wei Hui and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article compares the applications of traditional gold and silver-based SERS substrates and less conventional (Pd/Pt, Cu, Al, Si-based) SERS substrates, focusing on sensing, biosensing, and clinical analysis. In recent decades plethora of new biosensing and clinical SERS applications have fueled the search for more cost-effective, scalable, and stable substrates since traditional gold and silver-based substrates are quite expensive, prone to corrosion, contamination and non-specific binding, particularly by S-containing compounds. Following that, we briefly described our experimental experience with Si and Al-based SERS substrates and systematically analyzed the literature on SERS on substrate materials such as Pd/Pt, Cu, Al, and Si. We tabulated and discussed figures of merit such as enhancement factor (EF) and limit of detection (LOD) from analytical applications of these substrates. The results of the comparison showed that Pd/Pt substrates are not practical due to their high cost; Cu-based substrates are less stable and produce lower signal enhancement. Si and Al-based substrates showed promising results, particularly in combination with gold and silver nanostructures since they could produce comparable EFs and LODs as conventional substrates. In addition, their stability and relatively low cost make them viable alternatives for gold and silver-based substrates. Finally, this review highlighted and compared the clinical performance of non-traditional SERS substrates and traditional gold and silver SERS substrates. We discovered that if we take the average sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of clinical SERS assays reported in the literature, those parameters, particularly accuracy (93–94%), are similar for SERS bioassays on AgNP@Al, Si-based, Au-based, and Ag-based substrates. We hope that this review will encourage research into SERS biosensing on aluminum, silicon, and some other substrates. These Al and Si based substrates may respond efficiently to the major challenges to the SERS practical application. For instance, they may be not only less expensive, e.g., Al foil, but also in some cases more selective and sometimes more reproducible, when compared to gold-only or silver-only based SERS substrates. Overall, it may result in a greater diversity of applicable SERS substrates, allowing for better optimization and selection of the SERS substrate for a specific sensing/biosensing or clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to validate the analytical technique for determining the immediate development of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in various Indian seafood products. According to Commission Regulation (EC) 333/2007, various marine foods, including crustaceans, cephalopods, and fish species, were employed for the validation of the developed method by ICP-MS. HNO3 and H2O2 were combined to prepare the sample during microwave digestion. Specificity/selectivity, linearity, LOD, LOQ, precision-repeatability and reproducibility, accuracy-recovery, robustness, and fitness studies were used to validate the approach. The maximum RSD value and Horrat value (HorRat) for the within-lab reproducibility for all analytes (Pb, Cd, Hg, and As) in marine food were 5% and 1 respectively. The mean recovery for all analytes examined at three spiking levels (0.5, 1 & 1.5 of the permitted limit) was between 92.67 and 107.33%.Whereas limit of detection (LOD) values for Pb, Cd, Hg and As were 0.018 μg/g, 0.032 μg/g, 0.031 μg/g and 0.034 mg/kg for repeatability 6% and <1 respectively. 0.061 μg/g, 0.127 μg/g, 0.0.103 μg/g and 0.101 μg/g respectively, were the limit of quantitation (LOQ) values. At a 95% confidence level, the method's relative extended measurement uncertainty (k=2) was 9%. In fact, the developed method's precision was examined by taking part in LGC proficiency testing (round 253, sample 742); the outcomes (Z score, i.e. < 1) showed that this analytical method could be used for the routine analysis of these four toxic metals in seafood with acceptable analytical performance in the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Opioids have side effects when overdosing and are associated with addiction issues. • Routine blood and urine tests for opioid detection are not sufficiently accurate. • Nanobiosensors are great tools for continuously determining opioid intakes. • Selective, cost-effective, and sustainable opioid biosensors are required. Opioids are generally used as analgesics in pain treatment. Like many drugs, they have side effects when overdosed and can cause addiction problems. Illegal drug use and misuse are becoming a major concern for authorities worldwide; thus, it is critical to have precise procedures for detecting them in confiscated samples, biological fluids, and wastewaters. Routine blood and urine tests are insufficient for highly selective determinations and can cause cross-reactivities. For this purpose, nanomaterial-based biosensors are great tools to determine opioid intakes, continuously monitoring the drugs with high sensitivity and selectivity even at very low sample volumes. Nanobiosensors generally comprise a signal transducer nanostructure in which a biological recognition molecule is immobilized onto its surface. Lately, nanobiosensors have been extensively utilized for the molecular detection of opioids. The usage of novel nanomaterials in biosensing has impressed researchers who work on developing biosensors. Nanomaterials with a large surface area have been used to develop nanobiosensors with shorter reaction times and higher sensitivity than conventional biosensors. Colorimetric and fluorescence sensing methods are two kinds of optical sensor systems based on nanomaterials. Noble metal nanoparticles (NPs), such as silver and gold, are the most frequently applied nanomaterials in colorimetric techniques, owing to their unique optical feature of surface plasmon resonance. Despite the progress of an extensive spectrum of nanobiosensors over the last two decades, the future purpose of low-cost, high-throughput, multiplexed clinical diagnostic Lab-on-a-Chip instruments has yet to be fulfilled. In this review, a concise overview of opioids (such as tramadol and buprenorphine, oxycodone and fentanyl, methadone and morphine) is provided as well as information on their classification, mechanism of action, routine tests, and new opioid sensing technologies based on various NPs. In order to highlight the trend of nanostructure development in biosensor applications for opioids, recent literature examples with the nanomaterial type, target molecules, and their limits of detection are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical nanosensors, including single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), provide real-time spatiotemporal reporting at the single-molecule level within a nanometer-scale area. However, their superior sensitivity also makes them susceptible to slight environmental influences such as reference analytes in media, external fluid flow, and mechanical modulations. Consequently, they often fail to achieve the optimal limit of detection (LOD) and frequently convey misinformation spatiotemporally. To address this challenge, we developed a single-pixel mapping technique for optical nanosensor arrays that operates with high spatiotemporal precision using machine learning. We systematically measured the spatial sensing images of various analyte concentrations below the LOD by using a near-infrared (nIR) fluorescent SWCNT nanosensor array. For dopamine (DA) as an example analyte, we extracted single-pixel level sensing features such as entropy, the Laplacian operator, and neighboring values under noise levels. We then trained the artificial intelligence (AI) model to accurately identify specific reaction pixels of the nanosensor array, even below the LOD region. Additionally, our method can distinguish subtle noise caused by fluid in the media or mechanical modulation of the array substrate. As a result, our approach significantly improved the detection sensitivity of the nanosensor array, achieving a 13-fold increase over the original LOD and halving the detection time of the reporter pixels, with F1 scores exceeding 0.9. This method not only lowers the LOD of optical nanosensors but also isolates sensor responses specific to the analyte, providing accurate spatiotemporal information to the user, even in noisy conditions. It can be universally applied to various optical nanosensor materials and analytes, maximizing the sensitivity and accuracy of the nanosensors used in diagnostics and analysis.

Histamine is commonly present in food containing proteins, like in mackerel. Consuming fish is imperative for the improvement of human muscles. Nevertheless, some studies reported ingesting fish containing histamine more than 50 mg•kg-1 can cause toxicity. This study analyzed and determined the composition of histamine in mackerel and its products commonly consumed in Malaysia, especially on the East Coast of Malaysia. These included processed mackerel such as canned products, satay (skewed fish) and keropok lekor (fish cake/ cracker). Histamine analysis was performed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) equipped with a fluorescence detector. A derivatizing reaction was applied to increase the sensitivity of HPLC to histamine using 9-flourenilmethylchloroformate (FMOC-Cl). The chromatographic separation was achieved in 15 min. Method validation was in accordance to Commission Decision 657/2002/CE. The linear range was at 0.16 – 5.00 µg•mL-1 (histamine) with the LOD at 0.10 µg•mL-1 and LOQ at 0.30 µg•mL-1. Method applicability was checked on seven real samples involving raw, cooked, and dry products, yielding acceptable recovery.

Three quarters of all Mw ≥ 6.6 earthquakes and volcanic eruptions surrounding the Caribbean plate occur preferentially during periods of decadal minima in Earth’s angular spin velocity. This correlation is revealed most clearly as a 4–6 years phase lag following the first derivative of the length of the day (LOD), Earth’s angular deceleration. We show that local strains and displacements resulting from oblateness changes, or plate boundary stresses associated with changes in tropical rotation rates are orders of magnitude lower than those typically associated with earthquake or volcano triggering. Notwithstanding the absence of a satisfactory causal physical mechanism, the relationship permits decadal trends in Caribbean tectonic hazards to be anticipated many years before their occurrence. The next period of increased tectonic activity in the Caribbean, corresponding to a probable slowing in Earth’s spin rate, will occur in the decade starting on or about 2030.

Quercetin possesses low solubility and decreases oral bioavailability. One way to increase the bioavailability of quercetin is by formulating a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS). In vitro dissolution testing of SNEDDS needs to be carried out using a validated analytical method. This study aims to validate the quercetin analytical method in in vitro dissolution testing. Validation was carried out with two solvents, namely hydrochloric acid buffer pH 1.2 (HCl-1,2) and phosphate buffer pH 6.8 (PO-6.8). It tested some parameters, including linearity, detection limit (LoD), quantification limit (LoQ), accuracy, and precision. The quercetin calibration curve for both solvents has a value of r≥0.999. The LoD at HCl-1,2 and PO-6,8 were 0.26 ppm and 0.27 ppm, respectively. The LoQ of HCl-1,2 and PO-6,8 were 0.86 ppm and 0.91 ppm, respectively. The percentage recovery in both solvents was in the range of 80-110%. The relative standard deviation of the two solvents was less than 7.3%. The quercetin analytical method has been successfully validated as indicated by the results of linearity, detection limit, quantification limit, accuracy, and precision that met the requirements

The components of EAM are strongly correlated with LOD and play an important role in UT1-UTC and LOD prediction. However, the EAM dataset is prone to be noisy. In this study, we propose a hybrid method to reduce the noise of the EAM data and improve the accuracy of UT1-UTC and LOD predictions. We use the EOP data to denoise the EAM data, and use Kalman filtering to denoise the 1–6 days forecast of EAM. Then, we use the denoised EAM dataset to improve the UT1-UTC and LOD prediction. The denoised EAM dataset improved the prediction of UT1-UTC within 10 days by 20%. In addition, we found that by introducing two additional periodic (23.9 days and 91.3 days) components for the least-squares fitting, the accuracy of UT1-UTC and LOD prediction in the range of 30–80 days is significantly improved. In more than 430 UT1-UTC and LOD prediction experiments conducted during 2021–2022, the improvements in the 1–6 days forecast were significant. For the 6th day, 30th day, and 60th day, the MAE of UT1-UTC was 0.1592, 2.9169, and 6.7857 ms, respectively, corresponding to improvements of 31.35, 12.60, and 12.93%, respectively, when compared to predictions of Bulletin A. The MAE of LOD predictions on the 1st day, 6th day, 30th day, and 90th day was 0.0255, 0.0432, 0.1694, and 0.2505 ms, respectively, which improved by 26.09, 14.29, 6.36, and 3.76% when compared with our second EOPPCC method.

The article addressed the relevant problem of building information modeling. The suggestion was to introduce a BIM-based expert system into the design process. The proposed expert system encompasses the development of three levels of detail for a calculation model and digital interactive models of applicable regulatory documents. The proposed expert model has a modular structure, and it has a control module, a calculation scheme development module, a module for interaction with FEM solvers, and a module in charge of the database of interactive digital design standards. Standard operating conditions and non-standard emergency impacts are taken into account. The case of design standards for steel structures was used to describe the interaction between the expert system and the information model, and the characteristics and the structure of a digital model of a regulatory document. The data, calculated using the proposed LOD, were compared with the experimental findings. The structure of a real industrial building was designed, and its safety was evaluated. The proposed approach is a proven method applicable for designing safe bearing structures. In addition, their adequate deformation is most accurately taken account of at the stage of normal accident-free operation and in emergency situations.

This article presents the creation of the ‘Digitization of Gandharan Artefact Thesaurus’, a digital resource for the description of Gandharan art and – more generally – of Buddhist art. It was developed by the project ‘Digitisation of Gandharan Artefacts: A project for the preservation and the study of the Buddhist art of Pakistan’ (DiGA). This work has been realized by walking Seven Steps, a serendipitous coincidence pairing our work to a famous episode in the early life of the Buddha. Our Seven Steps are: • Collection and selection of sources, both digital and printed. • Creation of the core of the Thesaurus by digitizing the Repertorio Iconografico per la schedatura dell’arte gandharica. • Modifying, enriching, and structuring the Repertorio in RDF/SKOS. • Implementation of a hierarchy of concepts for narrative scenes (“narratives”). • Implementation of a hierarchy of concepts for characters (“figures”). • Comparison and reconciliation with other already existing digital thesauri. • Collaboration with other projects and institutions. The DiGA Thesaurus marks an important milestone towards a new vision of Gandharan studies in which the availability of digitized collections will foster new insights and understanding. Already during the creation of the Thesaurus, exciting new perspectives have opened in the field of both Gandharan studies and digital humanities.

LAMP diagnosis of malaria is simple and cost-effective with acceptable sensitivity and specificity as compared to standard diagnostic modules such as microscopy, RDTs and nested PCR, and thus its deployment for onsite screening of malaria in resource-limited regions is under consideration. However, the requirement of an electricity-operated dry bath and bulky read-out unit is still a major concern. In an effort to simplify this limitation, we have developed a portable LAMP device and fluorescence readout unit which can be used in the rapid point-of-care diagnosis of malaria. We have developed a point-of-care diagnostic LAMP device that is easy to operate by a mobile application, and the results can be quantified with a fluorescent readout unit. The diagnostic performance of the device was evaluated in 90 P. falciparum-infected clinical isolates stored at 4°C for 6-7 years and 10 freshly collected isolates from healthy volunteers. The LOD and quantitative ability of LAMP in estimating parasitemia levels were revealed with laboratory-grown P. falciparum strain (3D7). The LAMP assay performed in our device was exclusive for P. falciparum detection with sensitivity and specificity determined to be 98.89% and 100%, respectively, in clinical isolates. The LOD was documented to be 1 parasite/µl at the cut-off ADC value of 20. Parasite density estimated from ADC values showed concordance with microscopically determined parasite density of the cultured P. falciparum 3D7 strain. The LAMP assay performed in our device provides a possible portable platform for its deployment in the point-of-care diagnosis of malaria. Further validation of the quantitative ability of the assay with freshly collected or properly stored clinical samples of known parasitemia is necessary for field applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Merocyanine dye based fluorescent organic compound has been synthesized for the detection of glutamine. The probe showed remarkable fluorescent intensity with glutamine through ICT (Intermolecular Charge Transfer Mechanism). Hence, it is tested for the detection of glutamine using colorimetric and fluorimetric techniques in physiological and neutral pH (7.2). Under optimized experimental conditions, the probe detects glutamine selectively among other interfering biomolecules. The probe has showed a LOD (lower limit of detection) of 9.6 × 10–8 mol/L at the linear range 0–180 µM towards glutamine. The practical application of the probe is successfully tested in human biofluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modernization of the construction service sector in increasing competitiveness, in its implementation requires efficient, effective performance by building teams, building partners and minimizing claims. To meet these demands, one of the things that must be met in the processes and activities is through integrated solutions. In the private sector, this has been answered by the growing phenomenon of using the Design and Build method, which can meet the needs for speed, efficiency, integrated design and implementation, and organizational simplification. Observing these advantages, for state buildings, the government has accommodated the use of this method through the Minister of Public Works and Public Housing Regulation No. 25 of 2020 concerning Standards and Guidelines for Procurement of Integrated Construction Works through Design and Build Providers. In a construction project that uses an integrated design and build method, the weakness of product documents produced by service users (design criteria), resulting in insufficient information, too few schematic design documents are prepared, potentially becoming a problem of cross-understanding of the parties in the view of performance/output standards. on the final product. In addition, it creates difficulties at the design development stage, the preparation of HPS, the potential for an increase in the bid price as a result of the service provider having to accommodate risk factors and the final result of the work that is not in accordance with the expectations of service users. With this research, it is hoped that several factors that have an influential role in the success of building products that will be handed over can be studied, including how to anticipate the most optimal level of development (LOD) design criteria, what kind of LOD can be considered as an important factor. and influence in the preparation of design criteria, as well as what kind of recommendations can be needed so that the acceptance of the final result is in accordance with the expectations of all parties. This study was conducted to explore the advantages of using the integrated design and construction method with an in-depth study on the role and influence of the readiness of design criteria as a bridge and a success factor in the acceptance of results. This research case study is aimed at state buildings because there are still weak points in the smooth articulation of schematic designs from service users to design development by service providers. While in the private sector there is no such issue, it is more flexible, where it is very possible that the schematic designer of the same design (from the service user) is transferred/continued to be part of the service provider team, so that the design articulation is relatively smooth. This research approach focuses on intensive and in-depth analysis of something that is the focus of attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Isoniazid-based Schiff base N'-(furan-2-ylmethylene)isonicotinohydrazide (FINH) has been synthesized. FINH has proven its ability to selectively sense and respond to Cu2+, Ni2+, and Hg2+, which shows its potential as a chemosensor. UV–visible experiments, the absorption band (at 360 nm) of FINH shifted with the gradual addition of Cu2+, Ni2+, and Hg2+. A significant quenching in the emission band of FINH in fluorescence spectra has been observed with the addition of analytes at the physiological pH range. Cyclic voltammetric experiments have been conducted to determine the electron transfer process that occurs during the complexation of FINH with analytes. Moreover, the interactions of FINH -metal ions are reversible, and their reversible behavior has been demonstrated with the Na 2 EDTA solution. The binding insights among FINH and Cu2+, Ni2+, and Hg2+ are explained by IR spectral study. Additionally, the FINH works within the appreciable detection limit of 9.472 x 10−7 M (for Cu2+), 7.685 x 10−7 M (for Ni2+) and 2.411 x 10−7 M (for Hg2+), limit of quantitation of 3.15 x 10−6 M (for Cu2+), 2.561 x 10−6 M (for Ni2+) and 8.036 x 10−7 M (for Hg2+). Applying this isoniazid-based reversible chemosensor in analyzing real samples demonstrates its practicality and effectiveness for multi-analyte detection. This sensor could consistently measure metal ion concentrations in various environmental and biological samples, providing a valuable tool for monitoring pollutants and evaluating exposure risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of cytomegalovirus in clinical practice remains and samples are monitored for CMV DNA titers to predict the development of disease. LAMP assays have gained increasing interest in the diagnosis of many pathogens since they do not require thermocycling, reduce the complexity of the required instrumentation as well as providing sensitivity and rapidity. So far, very few studies on CMV detection by LAMP have been reported in the literature and therefore the performance of LAMP CMV assays needs to be further characterized. In a set-up for biometrological evaluation of the suitability of the LAMP assay for CMV diagnosis, a LAMP assay was performed on a total of 192 samples with 24 replicates of 8 different hCMV DNA concentrations. The LOD was calculated as 39.09 copy/reaction (25.33 copy/reaction to 65.84 copy/reaction) with 95 % confidence, representing a range that is suitable for qualitative detection. Furthermore, the lower limit of quantification was estimated at approximately 100 copy/reaction. The LOD and LLOQ values obtained in this first study to assess the biometrological relevance of LAMP CMV tests are consistent when compared to studies published before. However further study under different conditions is needed for the use of LAMP tests in clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LAMP diagnosis of malaria is simple and cost-effective with acceptable sensitivity and specificity as compared to standard diagnostic modules such as microscopy, RDTs and nested PCR, and thus its deployment for onsite screening of malaria in resource-limited regions is under consideration. However, the requirement of an electricity-operated dry bath and bulky read-out unit is still a major concern. In an effort to simplify this limitation, we have developed a portable LAMP device and fluorescence readout unit which can be used in the rapid point-of-care diagnosis of malaria. We have developed a point-of-care diagnostic LAMP device that is easy to operate by a mobile application, and the results can be quantified with a fluorescent readout unit. The diagnostic performance of the device was evaluated in 90 P. falciparum-infected clinical isolates stored at 4°C for 6-7 years and 10 freshly collected isolates from healthy volunteers. The LOD and quantitative ability of LAMP in estimating parasitemia levels were revealed with laboratory-grown P. falciparum strain (3D7). The LAMP assay performed in our device was exclusive for P. falciparum detection with sensitivity and specificity determined to be 98.89% and 100%, respectively, in clinical isolates. The LOD was documented to be 1 parasite/µl at the cut-off ADC value of 20. Parasite density estimated from ADC values showed concordance with microscopically determined parasite density of the cultured P. falciparum 3D7 strain. The LAMP assay performed in our device provides a possible portable platform for its deployment in the point-of-care diagnosis of malaria. Further validation of the quantitative ability of the assay with freshly collected or properly stored clinical samples of known parasitemia is necessary for field applicability.

Seafood accounts for more than 17% of the global consumption of animal protein, with an excess of 335000 t consumed in Australia throughout 2019-2020. Recently, the presence of microplastics (MPs) within commercial seafood and the potential vectorisation of MPs to human consumers has become a significant concern for the public and the scientific community. Here, four commonly harvested wild-caught marine organisms were assessed for MP presence. These species comprise a significant proportion of the Queensland seafood industry, as well as being highly desirable to Australian consumers. The edible muscle tissue and discarded digestive tissue (GIT) of barramundi (Lates calcifer), coral trout (Plectropomus leopardus), blue leg king prawns (Melicertus latisulcatus), and Ballot's saucer scallops (Ylistrum balloti), were analysed discretely to determine the extent to which these species may be contaminated in the wild (GIT tissue), and the extent to which they themselves may act as a vector for human exposure (edible muscle tissue). Wild-caught seafood was predominantly free of MPs, with digestive tissues from two of ten coral trout containing only two fibres each. All wild-caught muscle tissue samples were free of MPs, as was the GIT of scallops, prawns, and barramundi. On the other hand, fresh, skinless barramundi muscle tissues, purchased from various commercial suppliers, were examined and found to be significantly contaminated with MPs (0.02 - 0.19 MP g-1). Overall, these results highlight the growing consensus that food can become contaminated simply by being prepared in the human environment, and the focus must shift to determining the extent of MP proliferation within the processing and point-of-sale environment.

The real-time rendering of large-scale terrain scenes has been a challenge and is a popular research topic in the fields of 3D games and virtual reality. To fully utilize GPU features, this paper proposes a real-time rendering algorithm for large-scale regular grid terrain based on GPU Tessellation. The CPU processes a coarse-grained quadtree to generate terrain patches and then passes the patches to the GPU after view culling. Then, the GPU refines the terrain by using GPU Tessellation and displacement mapping. The most important advantage of our method is that during the tessellation stage, a new rule that the distance, screen space projection error and variance of the height, as the standard of terrain roughness, is designed. During the tessellation stage, the distance, screen space projection error and variance of the height, as the standard of terrain roughness, are considered. The experimental results show that our algorithm can greatly reduce the CPU processing time and main memory space requirement, and fully utilize the new features of the GPU; In conclusion, the proposed approach can render large-scale terrain with high-precision in real-time.

[Display omitted] • Synthesized imidazole-based Schiff base ligand (Z)- N '-((1H-imidazol-2-yl)methylene)-2-hydroxybenzohydrazide (IMBH). • IMBH was used as a selective and sensitive probe for detection of Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions. • The limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 4.10 × 10−7 M and 6.01 × 10−7 M, for Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions, respectively. • IMBH was successfully utilized for the quantitative analysis of Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions in real water samples and logic gate construction. A novel imidazole-based Schiff base ligand (Z)- N '-((1H-imidazol-2-yl)methylene)-2-hydroxybenzohydrazide (IMBH) , was effectively synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic methods. Chemosensor IMBH 's chelation enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) is responsible for its extremely selective and sensitive detection of Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions in DMSO solutions. Adding different metal ions (30 μM) allowed for the determination of the fluorescence behaviour of IMBH (50 μM). The findings showed that, only for Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions, a notable fluorescence quenching in the emission was seen at 465 nm with an excitation at 320 nm. Furthermore, the Job's plot and mass spectral analysis showed that IMBH bound Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions at a 2:1 (Ligand:Metal) ratio. For the Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions, the limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 0.204 × 10−9 M and 0.201 × 10−9 M, respectively. On the other hand, IMBH was successfully utilized for the quantitative analysis of Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions in real water samples and logic gate construction. In addition, optoelectronic and structural properties of the IMBH and Fe(II) and Cu(II) complexes were determined by solvent phase DFT calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride detection has been playing an important role in chemical, biological, and medicinal field, especially for keeping physical health and resisting environmental pollution. Herein, a urolithin B fluorescent probe has been successfully developed with good sensitivity, selectivity, anti-interference ability. The low limit of detection (LOD) refers to 0.156 μM, and the instant response time to F− is less than 1 s. The probe is suitable for quantitatively and qualitatively ratiometric detection for F− in solution with two distinct emission bands at 425 (blue) and 566 nm (orange), with the coordinate change of CIE from (0.38, 0.41) to (0.22, 0.11). Urolithin B displayed a remarkable ratiometric fluorescence response towards F−. The detection mechanistic was further proposed by NMR and electronic spectroscopic experiments combining with time-dependent density functional theoretical calculation. [Display omitted] • A Ratiometric fluorescent probe was developed. • The photochemical properties and LOD of UB to F− were investigated. • Mechanism of UB sensing toward F− was confirmed by 1H NMR, DFT and TD-DFT calculation. • Response time less than second could be applied as an instant detection. • Coordination ratio for UB and F− was determined according to Job's plot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we construct a new combined multiscale finite element method to solve the elliptic problem which has both a highly oscillating diffusion coefficient and a very complicated boundary. To design a numerical method for this kind of problems is difficult because that the microscopically geometrical information of the boundary and oscillation information of the coefficient should be taken into account simultaneously, which usually requires a very fine mesh. The main idea of the proposed method is to adopt unfitted fine scale meshes on the complicated boundary by using the cut finite element, and adopt the coarse scale meshes for the other part by using the recently developed local orthogonal decomposition (LOD) technique. Through this way, the introduced method can deal with arbitrarily complex boundaries and cut down some unnecessary computational effort. To ensure that the discrete systems are well-posed, we utilize the penalty technique on the artificial interface between coarse and fine meshes as well as on the boundary. The ghost penalty technique is used on the boundary to avoid the ill-condition of the system matrix. The error estimate and the condition number of the system matrix for the proposed method are derived without any periodic assumptions on the coefficient and boundary shape. Especially, the result is independent of the way that the boundary cut the mesh. Numerical experiments further confirm the theoretical results and demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]