Journal Description
Proceedings
Proceedings
is an open access journal dedicated to publishing findings resulting from conferences, workshops, and similar events. The conference organizers and proceedings editors are responsible for managing the peer-review process and selecting papers for conference proceedings.
Latest Articles
Content Marketing in the Digital Transformation Era: Trends and Best Practices
Proceedings 2024, 101(1), 7; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024101007 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
In the digital transformation era, content marketing has emerged as a critical strategy for organizations seeking to connect with their audiences in meaningful ways [...]
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Open AccessAbstract
Social Media Use, Value Consciousness, and Brand Relationships
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Christos Livas, Faidon Theofanidis, Apostolos Skotis and Chrysa Agapitou
Proceedings 2024, 101(1), 6; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024101006 - 7 May 2024
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In view of the ever-increasing social media use (SMU) from brands and customers [...]
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Open AccessAbstract
The Future Burden of Type 2 Diabetes in Belgium: A Microsimulation Model
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José L. Peñalvo, Junior Ocira, Diana Sagastume, Maria Salve Vasquez, Stefanie Vandevijvere and Elly Mertens
Proceedings 2023, 91(1), 428; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2023091428 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Over 60 million people in Europe live with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This high burden is influenced by factors like population aging and increasingly prevalent risk factors such as excess weight, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, and smoking. Addressing these factors from a
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Background: Over 60 million people in Europe live with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This high burden is influenced by factors like population aging and increasingly prevalent risk factors such as excess weight, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, and smoking. Addressing these factors from a public health perspective is challenging due to their complex interactions. Using current data, this study aims to predict the future burden of T2D in Belgium until 2030, as a benchmark to guide preventive strategies. Methods: This study utilized a discrete-event transition microsimulation model. A synthetic population was created using national census data of the Belgian population aged 0–80 years, along with the representative prevalence of diabetes risk factors obtained from the latest (2018) Belgian Health Interview and Examination Surveys. To create the synthetic population, the Simulation of Synthetic Complex Data and Multiple Imputation by Chained Equations method was used. Mortality information was obtained from the Belgian Standardized Procedures for Mortality Analysis database and used to calculate annual death probabilities. From 2018 to 2030, synthetic individuals transitioned annually from health to death, with or without developing type 2 diabetes, as predicted by the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score, and risk factors were updated via strata-specific transition probabilities. Results: A total of 6722 (95%UI: 3421 and 11,583) new cases of type 2 diabetes per 100,000 inhabitants are expected between 2018 and 2030 in Belgium, representing a 32.8% and 19.3% increase in T2D prevalence rate and DALYs rate, respectively. While T2D burden remained highest for lower-education subgroups across all three Belgian regions, the highest increases in incidence and prevalence rates by 2030 are observed for women in general, and particularly among Flemish women reporting higher education levels, with a 114% and 44.6% increase in prevalence and DALYs rates, respectively. Existing age- and education-related inequalities will remain apparent in 2030 across all three regions. Conclusion: The rising burden of T2D in Belgium underscores the importance of preventive strategies. Priority should be given to lower-education groups, but strategies must also be strengthened for individuals of higher socioeconomic status, as they are expected to experience a significant increase in T2D burden.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 14th European Nutrition Conference FENS 2023)
Open AccessAbstract
Electrochemical Analysis of Rationally Designed ZnO Nanostructures for Biodegradable Cellular Scaffolds
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Giuseppe Arrabito, Vittorio Ferrara, Giuseppe Prestopino, Pier Gianni Medaglia, Michelangelo Scopelliti and Bruno Pignataro
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 212; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097212 - 6 May 2024
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This work is a preliminary analysis of a wet-chemistry synthesized platform based on ZnO nanostructures (n-ZnO) for application in regenerative medicine. n-ZnO stability is investigated by electrochemical in situ sensing of zinc ions released by n-ZnO soaked in simulated biofluids. Impedance analysis allows
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This work is a preliminary analysis of a wet-chemistry synthesized platform based on ZnO nanostructures (n-ZnO) for application in regenerative medicine. n-ZnO stability is investigated by electrochemical in situ sensing of zinc ions released by n-ZnO soaked in simulated biofluids. Impedance analysis allows detection of subtle changes in the bulk solution impedance up to 50 kHz, which can be ascribed to the release of ionic species in solution, among which are Zn2+ ions. In parallel, a voltammetry analysis using low-cost, mercury-free, screen-printed sensors shows the release of Zn2+ ions at concentrations that are not harmful.
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Open AccessAbstract
Pulsed Temperature Operation of SnO2-Based Gas Sensors
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Larissa Egger, Lisbeth Reiner, Alessandro Togni, Christian Mitterer and Anton Köck
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 211; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097211 - 6 May 2024
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We herein demonstrate the pulsed-mode temperature operation of chemical sensor devices based on thin SnO2 films, which were synthesized by magnetron sputtering. The gas-sensitive films were integrated on SiN-based micro-hotplate (µhp) chips, which enable operation temperatures up to 500 °C. We compared
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We herein demonstrate the pulsed-mode temperature operation of chemical sensor devices based on thin SnO2 films, which were synthesized by magnetron sputtering. The gas-sensitive films were integrated on SiN-based micro-hotplate (µhp) chips, which enable operation temperatures up to 500 °C. We compared the gas sensor performance in constant temperature mode with pulsed temperature mode operation towards the test gases carbon monoxide and toluene. In contrast to constant temperature, the pulsed temperature mode operation reveals additional information about the type of test gas.
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Open AccessAbstract
Numerically Stable Magnetic Field Expressions for End-of-Shaft Angle Sensing Systems
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Peter Leitner, Lukas Rauber and Michael Ortner
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 210; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097210 - 6 May 2024
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The design of end-of-shaft angle sensing magnetic positioning systems (MPS) requires accurate field computations in the sensing area for the magnetostatic inversion procedure. Highly resolved field computations on a 3-D domain make FEM simulations unfeasible and favour analytical solutions. Analytical textbook field solutions
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The design of end-of-shaft angle sensing magnetic positioning systems (MPS) requires accurate field computations in the sensing area for the magnetostatic inversion procedure. Highly resolved field computations on a 3-D domain make FEM simulations unfeasible and favour analytical solutions. Analytical textbook field solutions of a number of standard magnet shapes are however numerically unstable along symmetry axes, body edges as well as in the far field. For the particular application of an end-of-shaft system, only a particular instability close to the symmetry axis, ρ → 0 plays a detrimental role. We stabilize the field equation by mathematical reformulation of naturally occurring numerically unstable combinations of elliptic integrals in the derivation. The resulting formulas or even their ready-to-use implementation in the freely available Python package Magpylib can be used without limitations for end-of-shaft MPS designs.
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Open AccessAbstract
Microfluidic Cuvette for Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
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Zoltán Szabó, Kitti Pankász, János Bozorádi, Orsolya Hakkel, Szabolcs Bella, Bianka Fabinyi, Sandro Meucci and Péter Fürjes
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 209; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097209 - 6 May 2024
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We intend to develop an in situ near-infrared spectroscopic solution for monitoring the nutrient composition (e.g., lactate concentration) in microfluidic channels of organ-on-chip devices. In this work, the effects of the geometry, surface quality, and architecture of the micro-volume cuvettes were characterized and
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We intend to develop an in situ near-infrared spectroscopic solution for monitoring the nutrient composition (e.g., lactate concentration) in microfluidic channels of organ-on-chip devices. In this work, the effects of the geometry, surface quality, and architecture of the micro-volume cuvettes were characterized and optimized considering the signal-to-noise ratio and sensitivity of the proposed spectroscopic method in case of aqueous solutions. The applicability of the micro-volume near-infrared spectroscopy method using this specially designed microfluidic cuvette was proven.
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Open AccessAbstract
The Development of a Research Scale for Neuroleadership
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Savaş Durmuş Bodur and Rana Özyurt Kaptanoğlu
Proceedings 2024, 101(1), 5; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024101005 - 2 May 2024
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Neuroleadership is an up-to-date leadership approach that brings together the general findings of research on people’s brain structures and leadership, and as a result of this process, directs the leadership structure by revealing the facts behind people’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors [...]
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Unveiling the Impact of Electronic Health Record Systems: A Comprehensive Exploration through Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
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Eleni Tsianaka and Konstantinos Peramatzis
Proceedings 2024, 101(1), 4; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024101004 - 29 Apr 2024
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Understanding the impact of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems is vital for improving the efficiency of healthcare administration [...]
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Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurial Proactiveness and Performance: The Perspective of Female Executives
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Nansy Karali, Christos Livas and Faidon Theofanidis
Proceedings 2024, 101(1), 3; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024101003 - 29 Apr 2024
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Women have been associated with more proactive cognitive processing [...]
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Open AccessAbstract
Landscape of Nutrition- or Diet-Related Randomised Controlled Trials: Data from Protocols Published between 2012 and 2022
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Michael Schlussel, Flavia Moraes, Simone Bernardes and Solange Durão
Proceedings 2023, 91(1), 427; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2023091427 - 28 Apr 2024
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Background and aims: As part of a project to consolidate reporting guidance for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), protocols of RCTs, and systematic reviews of nutritional interventions, it was important to understand the nutritional interventions research landscape over the past decade. We aimed to
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Background and aims: As part of a project to consolidate reporting guidance for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), protocols of RCTs, and systematic reviews of nutritional interventions, it was important to understand the nutritional interventions research landscape over the past decade. We aimed to assess the nutrition or diet-related interventions research landscape using data from RCT protocols published as research articles between 2012 and 2022. Methods: We searched six databases for eligible protocols published between January 2012 and March 2022. Data extracted included bibliometrics, study scope (population, intervention, comparator, outcome, study design), and research transparency practices (protocol registrations, conflicts of interest and funding statements, mentions of reporting guidelines). We screened the “Instructions for Authors” webpages of each journal contributing publications to our sample to check whether they endorsed reporting guidelines. Results: We included 1068 protocols. The frequency of publication of RCT protocols as research articles increased annually, with a mean of 161 (range: 155 to 163) publications/year. Healthy (n = 342; 32.0%) adults and elderly people (n = 350; 32.7%) composed the most frequent target population. Isolated nutrition- or diet-related interventions (n = 724; 67.8%) were most frequently studied, with supplementation (n = 405; 37.9%) being the most common type of intervention. The most frequent primary outcome reported was clinical status (n = 308; 28.8%). Most protocols described a single-centre (n = 838; 78.5%), two-arm (n = 844; 79.1%), parallel (n = 1014; 94.9%) RCT. Of the 148 journals in which the included protocols were published, general medical journals (n = 518; 48.5%) contributed more publications compared to methods journals (n = 479; 44.9%) and nutrition journals (n = 71; 6.6%). The SPIRIT statement was endorsed by 33.8% (n = 50) of the journals, CONSORT by 75.3% (n = 111), and TIDieR by 2.7% (n = 4). In 32.1%, 27.8%, and 1.9% of publications, the authors mentioned SPIRIT, CONSORT, and TIDieR, respectively. Most protocols (n = 1006; 94.2%) reported the study registration and included conflicts of interest (n = 952; 89.1%) or funding (n = 994; 93.2%) statements. Conclusions: The number of nutrition- or diet-related RCT protocols being published as research articles is increasing over time, showing the importance of this type of publication. The adoption of research transparency practices by researchers and journals can still improve.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 14th European Nutrition Conference FENS 2023)
Open AccessProceeding Paper
Pastoral Schools: Diffusing the Italian and Spanish Experience for Sustainable Mediterranean Pastoralism through Co-Creation
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Antonello Franca, Marta G. Ferre-Rivera, Feliu Lopez-i-Gelats, Giovanni M. Altana, Dimitrios Skordos, Marisol Dar Ali and Athanasios Ragkos
Proceedings 2024, 94(1), 66; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024094066 - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Pastoralism constitutes an extensive livestock system offering a feasible alternative toward agro-ecological transition. People who are engaged in the sector are expected to have a high level of skills related to knowledge and experience of nature and climate, management of resources, and other
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Pastoralism constitutes an extensive livestock system offering a feasible alternative toward agro-ecological transition. People who are engaged in the sector are expected to have a high level of skills related to knowledge and experience of nature and climate, management of resources, and other significant elements that comprise Traditional Ecological Knowledge. The purpose of this paper is to present the emergence and operation of “Pastoral Schools” in various Mediterranean countries, which offer training to people who wish to be professionally involved in pastoralism. In particular, the co-creation approach that takes place within the PASTINNOVA project is presented, which involves the establishment of Regional Living Labs bringing together actors from several Mediterranean countries who are interested in analyzing the operation of pastoral schools, exchange relevant experiences and knowledge, and deliver solutions that will upscale the performance of these schools and permit their operation to be expanded in other Mediterranean settings.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 17th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)
Open AccessAbstract
Sample Preparation and qPCR Detection of Tuberculosis on a Centrifugal Microfluidic Cartridge Enabling Molecular Downstream Resistance Profiling
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Judith Schlanderer, Markus Beutler, Jan Lüddecke, Harald Hoffmann and Nils Paust
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 208; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097208 - 26 Apr 2024
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Tuberculosis (TB) is still one of the world’s deadliest infections. Fast detection of the pathogen M. tuberculosis (MTB) and its genetic resistance markers substantially improves treatment success and outcome. A key element for rapid genetic diagnostics is the efficient extraction of DNA from
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Tuberculosis (TB) is still one of the world’s deadliest infections. Fast detection of the pathogen M. tuberculosis (MTB) and its genetic resistance markers substantially improves treatment success and outcome. A key element for rapid genetic diagnostics is the efficient extraction of DNA from sputum for qPCR detection at the point of care. We present the fully automated sample preparation of MTB DNA from 3 mL of liquefied sputum and qPCR detection of MTB on a centrifugal microfluidic cartridge. Our method achieves a limit of detection (LoD) between 17 and 57 CFU/mL and provides a purified DNA solution for molecular downstream testing, such as targeted NGS.
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Open AccessAbstract
Exploring the Nexus: Socio-Demographic Factors and Perceptions of Digital Entrepreneurial Competences of University Students
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Vladimir Simovic
Proceedings 2024, 101(1), 2; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024101002 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Digital entrepreneurial competences (DEC) are “the total ability of the entrepreneur to perform a job role successfully using a range of ICT means” [...]
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Complaint Management through the E-State Portal: Is Digitalization Actually Beneficial?
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Elif Üstündağlı Erten
Proceedings 2024, 101(1), 1; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024101001 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Complaint management is a crucial strategic instrument utilized by businesses to recognize and eliminate customer discontentment, with the aim of retaining customers, enhancing profitability, and augmenting service quality perceptions [...]
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Analysis of Innovative Processes within an Organic Apple Production System (CO-FRESH)
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Ewa Rembiałkowska, Renata Kazimierczak, Hubert Dobrowolski and Justyna Obidzińska
Proceedings 2023, 91(1), 426; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2023091426 - 24 Apr 2024
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For the CO-FRESH (CO-creating sustainable and competitive FRuits and vEgetableS’ value cHains in Europe) project, implemented under Horizon 2020, the main objective is to design and pilot innovative system approaches to agri-food value chains in order to scale up this innovation at the
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For the CO-FRESH (CO-creating sustainable and competitive FRuits and vEgetableS’ value cHains in Europe) project, implemented under Horizon 2020, the main objective is to design and pilot innovative system approaches to agri-food value chains in order to scale up this innovation at the European level. The Association of Polish Organic Fruit Producers POLSKI EKOOWOC has been selected as a pilot unit of the CO-FRESH project. The association includes 20 certified organic fruit growers from central Poland. Their acreage comprises more than 600 ha of organic orchards and plantations, producing 30,000 tonnes of organic fruit annually. During the course of the CO-FRESH project, a uniform methodology was developed to analyse and redesign the selected pilot units. A definition and description of the EKOOWOC association as a value chain in fruit production was first made. Then, after appropriate project training, a SWOT analysis was carried out for EKOOWOC in a meeting of a Polish working group of 10 people representing the downstream links in the production chain of this pilot unit. At the same meeting, a selection of proposed innovations for EKOOWOC was carried out. Several innovations important for the development of the pilot unit were pre-selected. After a few days, through a DELPHI survey, the working group selected the most important innovations for the EKOOWOC pilot unit. The creation of an online shop for the sale of organic fruit was chosen; the commercial activity here is combined with an educational activity, as customers ordering fruit learn about the qualities of organic apples of different varieties. Another innovation is the composting of organic residues from the orchard, with the aim of minimising organic waste. Two experimental compost heaps were set up, made up of several layers of waste—straw, waste apples, soil from organic mushrooms, leaves from the orchard and cut branches. The compost used a preparation of microoganisms, fermented organic matter and a natural mineral containing 64 elements. The final innovation was the production of vinegar from organic apples that do not meet commercial requirements. These are healthy fruits with too-small a diameter or an unusual shape. This action also minimises producer losses and allows for the use of waste materials. Organic vinegar has great health-promoting qualities and can be used for both culinary and cosmetic–medicinal purposes. The innovations are currently in the implementation phase and will be implemented from October 2023.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 14th European Nutrition Conference FENS 2023)
Open AccessAbstract
Isotope-Selective Gas Sensing Using Photoacoustic Non-Dispersive Spectroscopy
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Gabriel Rodriguez Gutierrez, Loay Marouani, Alvaro Ortiz Perez, Peter Kreuzaler and Stefan Palzer
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 207; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097207 - 24 Apr 2024
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The flow of carbons into the citric acid cycle can be readily traced by supplementation with 13C stable isotope labelled nutrients. However, the quantification of the amount of fully oxidised nutrients to carbon dioxide is a challenging task. This contribution presents an
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The flow of carbons into the citric acid cycle can be readily traced by supplementation with 13C stable isotope labelled nutrients. However, the quantification of the amount of fully oxidised nutrients to carbon dioxide is a challenging task. This contribution presents an isotope-selective, miniaturized gas detection scheme based on indirect photoacoustic spectroscopy. The results show that low-cost, continuous, in situ monitoring of the isotope ratio in gaseous samples is feasible.
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Open AccessAbstract
Noble Metal-Loaded WO3-Based Gases—The Gold Anomaly
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Anna Staerz, Udo Weimar and Nicolae Barsan
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 206; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097206 - 24 Apr 2024
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Tungsten oxide is one of the most commonly used materials for metal oxide-based gas sensors. In order to tune the sensing behavior, small clusters of noble metals are often added to the surface of WO3. Previously, it has been found that
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Tungsten oxide is one of the most commonly used materials for metal oxide-based gas sensors. In order to tune the sensing behavior, small clusters of noble metals are often added to the surface of WO3. Previously, it has been found that in the case of oxidized metal clusters, e.g., Rh and Pt additives, the Fermi-level pinning mechanism dominates. Unlike other noble metal surface clusters, gold seems to remain metallic under sensor operation. As a result, the behavior of WO3-based sensors was found to be significantly enhanced for all reducing gases and decreased for NO2.
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Open AccessAbstract
A New Active Antenna Unit for Portable Microwave Bio-Dosimeters
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Andrey Simakov, Igor Vodokhlebov and Yuriy Voronov
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 205; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097205 - 24 Apr 2024
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Today, the growing ecological contamination by microwave irradiation requires new devices and information systems to monitor dangerous situations, especially in big cities, and provide safety for the population. This work is focused on the design of anew antenna unit for advanced portable personal
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Today, the growing ecological contamination by microwave irradiation requires new devices and information systems to monitor dangerous situations, especially in big cities, and provide safety for the population. This work is focused on the design of anew antenna unit for advanced portable personal microwave dosimeters and irradiation monitoring systems.
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Open AccessAbstract
Graphene Oxide-Based Flexible Sensors for Detection of Volatile Organic Compounds at Room Temperature
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Anna Maria Laera, Gennaro Cassano, Emiliano Burresi, Maria Lucia Protopapa and Michele Penza
Proceedings 2024, 97(1), 204; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/proceedings2024097204 - 24 Apr 2024
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Flexible sensors, with an active layer made of graphene oxide (GO), were produced to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at room temperature. Copper interdigitated electrodes were inkjet-printed on a substrate of bimatted polyester, and the direct drop-casting of a GO water solution was
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Flexible sensors, with an active layer made of graphene oxide (GO), were produced to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at room temperature. Copper interdigitated electrodes were inkjet-printed on a substrate of bimatted polyester, and the direct drop-casting of a GO water solution was carried out to coat the devices. The performance of both commercial GO and GO synthesized by a modified Hummers’ method was investigated and compared. The oxygenated functional groups on the GO surface mainly enhance the selective sensing of polar analytes. The fabricated sensors exhibit the highest response towards alcohols, and minor sensitivity to esters, ketones, ethers and apolar petroleum ether.
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