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Researchers from Freie Universitat Berlin have highlighted the issue of paper mills, for-profit companies that guarantee the publication of low-quality papers, with an estimated 400,000 such papers in scientific literature. These papers often involve scientific misconduct like plagiarism and data fabrication, impacting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The study aims to raise awareness of this problem and suggests measures such as open peer review and improved detection methods to prevent fraudulent papers from being published. The full report can be accessed in the European Journal of Public Health. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a dispenser for a roll of absorbent paper web material. The dispenser is designed to protect the roll from outside elements and prevent users from soiling the roll. It features a dispensing opening with a restricted opening area, allowing for easy dispensing of the paper. The dispenser can be used for rolls with or without a core and is suitable for toilet paper or household paper. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences in Tanzania aimed to determine the stability of Schistosoma mansoni circulating cathodic antigens (CCA) in filter paper-based dried urine spot (FP-DUS) samples under different temperature conditions. The study found that despite a decrease in intensity, S. mansoni CCA remained stable and detectable in urine samples stored in FP-DUS. The findings suggest that FP-DUS samples can be used as a reliable method for detecting S. mansoni infection. Further information on the study can be found in the journal article "Longevity of Schistosoma mansoni circulating cathodic antigens in filter paper dried urine spots" published in Practical Laboratory Medicine. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Device for Non-Destructive Transforming of Paper" has been published online. The inventor, James Kaslik, has developed a device that aims to improve the effectiveness of cleaning residue off human skin and body hair. The device transforms the texture, density, and wetness of toilet tissue paper in real time, allowing for superior cleaning. It is pocket-sized and can be used independently of any other bathroom fixture. The device requires liquid, a mold, and pressure to transform the paper, and it decomposes in water without causing harm to sewage and septic systems. [Extracted from the article]

Essity Hygiene and Health Aktiebolag has been issued a patent for a tissue product and the method and apparatus for producing it. The patent discusses different types of hygiene and wiping products, including tissue paper, wet-creped paper, and non-wovens. It explains the traditional tissue making process and introduces an alternative technique called Through Air Drying (TAD) that enhances the softness of tissue paper. The patent also explores various methods for embossing and bonding plies to create multi-ply tissue products. The tissue product described in the patent offers improved caliper, strength, and softness, and is primarily designed for hygiene and cleaning purposes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj Napoca, Romania, compared the use of traditional 40 mm articulating paper with digital devices for detecting occlusal contacts in dentistry. The study included 25 participants and found that the articulating paper detected more overall contacts, particularly in the posterior areas, compared to the digital devices. However, the study concluded that an ideal method for registering occlusal contacts has not yet been established. This research provides valuable insights into the ongoing shift towards digital dentistry and highlights the need for further investigation in this area. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University Hospital examined the sociodemographic characteristics of participants in the Danish Capital Region Health Survey who responded online versus those who used a paper-based questionnaire. The research found that the proportion of paper respondents decreased from 18% in 2017 to 16% in 2021, with women more likely to respond on paper than men. The study highlighted the potential risk of excluding elderly citizens from large population surveys if only web-based response options are provided, emphasizing the importance of considering alternative modes of data collection for representativeness. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for an elongated smoking article by Reemtsma Cigarettenfabriken GmbH, developed by inventors Cooper and Fuhrmann. The patent aims to provide smokers with the ability to adjust the intensity of additional flavoring in smoking articles, addressing drawbacks of prior methods. The smoking article includes a cylindrical smoking body, a filter element, and tipping paper with flavoring that varies in distribution, allowing users to customize their smoking experience. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for temperature-controlled valves for paper-based microfluidic systems by inventors from West Lafayette, Indiana. The patent, assigned to Purdue Research Foundation, focuses on developing a low-cost valve mechanism for paper-fluidic diagnostic devices that requires minimal user involvement and can be easily manufactured. The invention aims to improve fluid control within paper-based devices for point-of-care testing and disease screening, offering a portable alternative to traditional microfluidic devices. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, examined the implementation of a standardized paper-based chronic noncommunicable disease (CNCD) registry in primary health-care clinics. The study found that the registry was easily adopted and well accepted by end-users, with high levels of feasibility, penetration, acceptability, sustainability, fidelity, and uptake. However, some end-users expressed concerns about the cost of implementation. The study concluded that a standardized paper-based registry is possible and feasible, and the next step is to implement a digitized CNCD registry. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine focused on a novel morphological classification of the left atrial appendage (LAA) using 3D printing technology. The research aimed to identify the relationship between LAA features and clinical events like ischemic stroke in Japanese patients. The study found that patients with a specific LAA type, referred to as the "Paper" type, were more likely to have a history of cardioembolic stroke, suggesting potential implications for antithrombotic management in high-risk patients. The findings were published in the European Heart Journal and may influence treatment options for individuals at risk of embolic and bleeding events. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Bologna have developed a biosensor for the quantification of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a parameter used to assess the viability of bacterial cells. Traditional methods of ATP detection are costly and require specialized equipment, but the biosensor developed by the researchers offers advantages such as enhanced stability, lower cost, and ease of design. The biosensor utilizes a DNA nanoswitch with two functional domains, and it can be integrated with microfluidic paper-based analytical devices for point-of-care applications. The researchers optimized the paper functionalization strategies and assay protocols to achieve simple and straightforward detection of ATP, with a limit of detection of 3 M. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a project that aims to create a database of potentially relevant papers on anxiety, substance use, and depressive disorders. The project involves a systematic review process, including a broad search, data cleaning, active learning using a shallow classifier, and a quality assessment procedure. The researchers have made all the scripts, data files, and output files available for reproducibility. It is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

Jiangsu Bioperfectus Technologies Co. Ltd. has filed a patent application for an auxiliary test paper detection device that aims to improve pathogen detection. The device addresses the limitations of current methods by reducing waiting times, cross-infection risks, and costs associated with hospital treatment. It consists of a reagent cap and a test paper cassette, which form a closed space for sample absorption. The device simplifies the detection process, prevents environmental pollution, and allows for autonomous operation at home. The patent application provides further details and claims. [Extracted from the article]

This article reports on a systematic review of conference papers in social psychology presented at the Japanese Psychological Association and Japanese Society of Social Psychology. The review is in the stage 2 data collection phase and aims to gather information on mental health and psychological sciences. The article emphasizes that it is a preprint and has not yet undergone peer review. The information provided is fact-based and aims to deliver research and discoveries from around the world. [Extracted from the article]

This article reports on a systematic review of conference papers in social psychology, specifically those presented at the Japanese Psychological Association and the Japanese Society of Social Psychology. The review is in its stage 1 data collection phase and aims to gather information on mental health and psychological sciences. The article emphasizes that it is a preprint and has not yet undergone peer review. The report provides keywords for further research and highlights its commitment to delivering fact-based news. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a dispenser for rolls of absorbent paper. The dispenser is designed to house at least two rolls and has a dispensing opening and a movable door. The door can be positioned to control which roll is being used, allowing for the first roll to be depleted before the second roll is accessed. The dispenser can accommodate rolls with or without a core and is suitable for various types of rolled-up materials. The patent provides detailed descriptions of the dispenser's design and mechanisms. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from researchers at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board in the United Kingdom explores the use of patient empowerment tools in self-management of long-term conditions. The researchers conducted a rapid evidence review and used a modified Psychometric and Pragmatic Evidence Rating Scale (PAPERS) to assess the psychometric properties of various tools. The study identified several high-scoring tools in domains such as health literacy, patient activation, long-term conditions, and self-management needs and behaviors. The researchers concluded that PAPERS was a useful tool for evaluating the validity and reliability of patient empowerment tools, but further research is needed to understand the influence of health literacy on tool outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Rice University evaluated the usability of single-page and multipage digital instructions in a ballot mailing task. Previous research had suggested that the single-page format was more efficient, but this study found that the multipage format had fewer errors and requests for assistance. The study concluded that the multipage format should be utilized for the digital display of ballot mailing instructions in emerging paper-digital systems. This research provides insights for the design of digital instructions in electronic voting systems. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have developed a conductive polymer nanocomposite that can be used to monitor levels of ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid deficiency affects a significant portion of underdeveloped populations, and there is a growing demand for its monitoring. The nanocomposite, which is based on polyaniline, polystyrene sulfonate, and multi-walled carbon nanotubes, shows good ascorbic acid sensing characteristics and has the potential to support widespread and affordable monitoring of ascorbic acid deficiency. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of The Electrochemical Society. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Fudan University in Shanghai, China, have developed a new method for detecting uric acid levels in the human body, which is crucial for diagnosing conditions like gout and metabolic diseases. By using tetracationic macrocycles with aminoethoxy side chains, they achieved a high binding affinity for uric acid, allowing for a visual sensing system to distinguish hyperuricemia from normal levels. This research, supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, offers a bicolor colorimetric system for detecting uric acid in both solution and paper assays. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application for a "Portable Compact Pipe" was filed by inventor Robert A. Coscia, aiming to create an inexpensive and portable smoking device. The pipe is designed to be compact and made from disposable materials like paper, with some components potentially made from metal or plastic. The patent application outlines the structure of the pipe, including interlocking shapes and foldable parts, to create a smoking device with interchangeable components. [Extracted from the article]

A patent was issued for banded papers, smoking articles, and methods by inventors from Virginia, with Altria Client Services LLC as the assignee. The patent focuses on reducing accidental fires from smoking articles by measuring Ignition Propensity and Self-Extinguishment values. The patent describes a wrapper for smoking articles with a film-forming compound pattern to improve safety and consumer satisfaction. This patent aims to enhance smoking article safety and user experience through innovative design and materials. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a smoking article developed by inventors Munmaya K. Mishra and Shaoyong Yu. The smoking article consists of a burn portion and a mouth portion, with the burn portion containing a smoking rod filled with a smokeable filler material made primarily of cellulose. The mouth portion includes a filter and an interface for storing additives. The patent provides various claims and details about the composition and design of the smoking article. The assignee for the patent is Altria Client Services LLC. [Extracted from the article]

A researcher from the University of Surrey, Professor Joe Keddie, has been awarded a Royal Society Industry Fellowship in collaboration with sustainable packaging company Pulpex Ltd. The fellowship aims to develop paper-based packaging that is PEFC-accredited and FSC-certified using renewable feedstocks. The goal is to provide an alternative to plastic packaging and reduce plastic waste. Keddie and Pulpex will work together to develop a new coatings technology, with support from the Royal Society funding. The fellowship aligns with Surrey's Institute for Sustainability's focus on recycling, reuse, and developing alternative materials for plastics. [Extracted from the article]

In June 2024, a significant Alzheimer's research paper was retracted due to fraud allegations. However, this may not have been a complete waste of time and resources, as two potentially helpful drugs targeting the subject of the paper, amyloid beta, are now on the market. This video from the American Chemical Society and PBS Digital Studios discusses the amyloid-beta hypothesis, the fraud, and the future of Alzheimer's research. The American Chemical Society is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing the chemistry enterprise and providing access to scientific information. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been filed by James A. Kaslik for a device that can transform toilet paper in real time to improve its effectiveness at cleaning residue off the skin and body hair. The device is pocket-sized and can be carried anywhere. It uses liquid, a mold, and pressure to transform the texture, density, and wetness of the paper. The transformed paper provides superior cleaning and decomposes in water without causing harm to sewage and septic systems. Various variations of the device are also described in the patent application. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at China Jiliang University in Hangzhou, People's Republic of China, examined the presence of organophosphate esters (OPEs) in plastic and paper-based food contact materials. The research found that 13 OPEs were identified in the packaging samples, with some compounds migrating into food simulants. While certain OPEs were found to pose health risks, the overall risk of OPE exposure to humans was determined to be low. This research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Science and Technology Project of Zhejiang Market Regulatory Administration. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from the Medical University of Plovdiv focused on prosthetic treatment for complete edentulism, which aims to restore chewing function, speech, breathing, and aesthetic appearance for patients. The study evaluated the satisfaction of 20 completely edentulous patients who received treatment with complete dentures articulated with articulation paper and the T-SCAN system. The researchers found that the digital occlusal analysis provided more accurate information on the articulation of the prostheses, leading to increased patient satisfaction and comfort. The study suggests that this quantitative methodology can be used as the preferred method for controlling occluso-articulation relationships in dental practices. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Southwest University in Chongqing, China have developed a portable and visual sensing platform for detecting cytochrome c (Cyt c), an important biomarker in the apoptosis process. The platform utilizes graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and filter paper to create a solid platform for detection. The method is low-cost, fast, portable, and visual, making it useful for investigating mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptotic cell death. This research was supported by various funding sources and was published in the journal Chemosensors. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Alabama Huntsville discusses the use of ChatGPT, an AI chatbot, for studying human-AI interaction. The research highlights the strengths of ChatGPT in context awareness but also points out limitations in providing academic references. The study emphasizes the need to understand the capabilities and limitations of this new technology. For more information, the full article can be accessed for free at the provided link. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Saudi EFL preparatory year students' perceptions of taking computer-based tests versus paper-based tests at King Abdulaziz University. The study found that factors such as high anxiety levels before and during exams can impact students' performance on computer-based tests. A Likert-scale questionnaire was used to collect data from 100 participants, revealing that most students expressed their perceptions of computer-based testing and its correlation to anxiety levels. The research has not yet been peer-reviewed and was conducted at the Rabigh branch of the university. [Extracted from the article]

This patent application discusses the development of a paper-based microfluidic diagnostic device that aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of point-of-collection (POC) analyses. The device consists of a top and bottom panel with cut regions that form diagnostic wells, which contain a diagnostic paper layer with components for analyte assessment. The device allows for the vertical flow of fluid samples through the diagnostic paper layer, eliminating the need for specialized instrumentation. The invention also includes methods for detecting and quantifying analytes using the device, as well as selecting machine learning models for predicting diagnostic test results. The patent application describes various implementations of microfluidic diagnostic devices and methods for their rapid processing, with potential applications in healthcare diagnostics. [Extracted from the article]

SWM Holdings US LLC has been issued a patent for a coated plug wrap for a smoking article. The patent describes the use of a base paper made from hardwood pulp fibers and softwood pulp fibers, coated with materials such as acrylate, styrene, or butadiene. The coated plug wrap aims to increase the strength of the paper, prevent flavorings from escaping, and prevent air from diluting the aromas of the smoking article. The patent also includes claims for the composition and process of producing the coated plug wrap. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Hong Kong analyzed the topics of dental YouTube videos and their citation count. The study found that the majority of papers evaluated videos recorded in English and focused on dental journals. Videos targeting patients/public received higher citations compared to those targeting dental professionals only. The most represented specialty in dental YouTube publications was oral and maxillofacial surgery/oral medicine. The study also identified twin or triplet studies covering the same topic but with varying numbers of videos. [Extracted from the article]

The patent application titled "Core biopsy tissue sample dislodging onto an adhesives-free strip on an insert fitting into industry-standard cassette for further processing" describes a new method and device for improving the structural integrity and size of tissue samples collected using core biopsy needles. The invention aims to enhance the reliability and reproducibility of pathology assessments by preserving tissue sample integrity during dislodging and processing. By dislodging tissue samples onto a special strip without the need for adhesives, the new method reduces fragmentation, stretching, and distortion, leading to better quality tissue samples for further evaluation and processing in pathology laboratories. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of California in Irvine explored the integration of wearable trackers and mobile health technology to develop a personalized exercise recommendation system. By utilizing reinforcement learning, the system tailored exercise plans based on biomarkers and individual contexts, resulting in a significant increase in daily exercise duration among participants. The research highlights the potential of personalized health interventions through advancements in mobile health systems, emphasizing user engagement and performance outcomes. The study was published in ACM Transactions on Computing for Healthcare and can be accessed for free online. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report published by researchers from the Department of Health Professions in Manchester, United Kingdom, explores the adoption of a societal perspective in economic evaluations of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. Economic evaluations are used to compare the costs and consequences of healthcare interventions, and reimbursement decisions for MSK disorders rely on the findings of these evaluations. The researchers argue that the societal perspective, which includes all costs and benefits associated with interventions, is the preferable option for economic evaluations of MSK disorders. This perspective aims to reduce the economic burden of MSK disorders and improve the health outcomes of individuals with these conditions. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a project that aims to create a database of potentially relevant papers on anxiety, substance use, and depressive disorders. The project involves a systematic review process, including a broad search, data cleaning, active learning using a shallow classifier, and a quality assessment procedure. The researchers have made all the scripts, data files, and output files available for reproducibility. It is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Maharashtra, India, examined the use of theory papers as an assessment method in medical education. The researchers developed a rubric matrix to analyze postgraduate question papers in various specialties. The analysis revealed that the majority of departments were graded as fair, with none being graded as very good. Additionally, the study found that the questions asked in these papers were more recall-based rather than assessing higher cognitive functions. This research suggests the need for valid assessment methods that properly evaluate learning outcomes in medical education. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Utah Health highlights the diversity within the family medicine workforce, emphasizing the importance of research on diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism (DEIA) in providing optimal care to diverse patient populations. The study underscores the need for increased awareness and recognition of scholarly work in DEIA among practicing and teaching physicians to address inequities and barriers in healthcare. Collaborative efforts with family medicine journal editors aim to promote practice-changing articles and innovative approaches to improve DEIA efforts in family medicine practice and education. [Extracted from the article]

A scoping review conducted by researchers at Oslo Metropolitan University highlights the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants in accessing emergency healthcare. The study found that legal uncertainties, economic constraints, language differences, and cultural disparities contribute to delayed medical care and worsen health inequities. Undocumented immigrants often rely on emergency departments as their primary source of care due to lack of insurance and knowledge of alternatives. The research emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure equitable health outcomes for this vulnerable population, including policy reforms, increased healthcare provider awareness, and community-based interventions. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions and explore the broader implications of healthcare access disparities. [Extracted from the article]

A position paper from the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) Vitamin D Working Group discusses the global burden of vitamin D deficiency and public health strategies for prevention. The paper addresses issues such as variations in vitamin D concentrations, testing methods, guidelines, screening, supplementation, and food fortification. The authors emphasize the need for standardized measures of vitamin D levels in future studies and publications. They also highlight the importance of considering population-specific factors and context when optimizing vitamin D status, including overall calcium intake. Severe vitamin D deficiency should be assessed and treated by healthcare professionals, while public health approaches aim to maintain adequate vitamin D levels to reduce the risk of health problems overall. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventor Emily R. Armenta proposes a multi-sensory product packaging assembly that is environmentally friendly. The packaging includes a biodegradable box, tissue paper, and paper products with printing made from natural inks or earth pigment dyes. The assembly also includes compostable materials, such as a biodegradable sticker and a biodegradable card with non-GMO seeds embedded in a biodegradable medium. The packaging is designed to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and minimize negative environmental impacts. The patent application provides detailed descriptions and claims for the proposed packaging assembly. [Extracted from the article]