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A new generation of rapid, easy to use and robust colorimetric point of care (POC) nanocellulose coated-paper sensors to measure glucose concentration in blood is presented in this study. The cellulose gel containing the enzyme with co-additive is coated and dried onto a paper substrate. Nanocellulose gel is used to store, immobilize and stabilize enzymes within its structure to prolong enzyme function and enhance its availability. Here, we immobilize glucose oxidase within the gel structure to produce a simple colorimetric blood glucose sensor. Increase in blood glucose concentration increases the concentration of reaction product which decreases the system pH detected by the pH indicative dye entrapped in the nanocellulose gel. The sensor produces a color change from red to orange as pH decreases due to the enzymatic reaction of glucose into gluconic acid and hydrogen peroxide. This sensor can measure glucose concentrations of 7–13 mM (medical range for diabetes control) at temperatures of 4°C–40°C. Stability tests confirm that no denaturation of enzyme occurs by measuring enzyme activity after 4 weeks. A prototype device is designed to instantly measure the glucose concentration from blood in a two steps process: 1) red blood cell separation and 2) quantification of glucose by color change. This study demonstrates nanocellulose sensor as an economical, robust, and sensitive diagnostic technology platform for a broad spectrum of diseases.

The paper presents a technique for determining the time index of growth of the slope of reverse voltage for double insulated cables, based on the body of the theory of series. It is proved that in the vicinity of the extremum point (maximum) the function of the reverse voltage is approximated by polynomials of the nth power. It is proposed to use second-degree polynomials for practical calculations. The method for calculating relevant indicators is illustrated using real data. Analysis of deviations made it possible to conclude that the calculation method proposed in the paper is far more accurate. In the final part of the study, it was concluded that there is a promising outlook for further development of methodological guidelines for determining complex indices of the remaining life of the cable, including but not limited to the use of various mathematical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indoor residual spraying (IRS) of insecticides is a key method to reduce vector transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi, causing Chagas disease in a large part of South America. However, the successes of IRS in the Gran Chaco region straddling Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay, have not equalled those in other Southern Cone countries. Aims: This study evaluated routine IRS practices and insecticide quality control in a typical endemic community in the Bolivian Chaco. Methods: Alpha-cypermethrin active ingredient (a.i.) captured onto filter papers fitted to sprayed wall surfaces, and in prepared spray tank solutions, were measured using an adapted Insecticide Quantification Kit (IQK™) validated against HPLC quantification methods. The data were analysed by mixed-effects negative binomial regression models to examine the delivered insecticide a.i. concentrations on filter papers in relation to the sprayed wall heights, spray coverage rates (surface area / spray time [m2/min]), and observed/expected spray rate ratios. Variations between health workers and householders' compliance to empty houses for IRS delivery were also evaluated. Sedimentation rates of alpha-cypermethrin a.i. post-mixing of prepared spray tanks were quantified in the laboratory. Results: Substantial variations were observed in the alpha-cypermethrin a.i. concentrations delivered; only 10.4% (50/480) of filter papers and 8.8% (5/57) of houses received the target concentration of 50 mg ± 20% a.i./m2. The delivered concentrations were not related to those in the matched spray tank solutions. The sedimentation of alpha-cypermethrin a.i. in the surface solution of prepared spray tanks was rapid post-mixing, resulting in a linear 3.3% loss of a.i. content per minute and 49% loss after 15 min. Only 7.5% (6/80) of houses were sprayed at the WHO recommended rate of 19 m2/min (± 10%), whereas 77.5% (62/80) were sprayed at a lower than expected rate. The median a.i. concentration delivered to houses was not significantly associated with the observed spray coverage rate. Householder compliance did not significantly influence either the spray coverage rates or the median alpha-cypermethrin a.i. concentrations delivered to houses. Conclusions: Suboptimal delivery of IRS is partially attributable to the insecticide physical characteristics and the need for revision of insecticide delivery methods, which includes training of IRS teams and community education to encourage compliance. The IQK™ is a necessary field-friendly tool to improve IRS quality and to facilitate health worker training and decision-making by Chagas disease vector control managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper is a common material that is promising for constructing microfluidic chips (lab-on-a-paper) for diagnostics and drug delivery for biomedical applications. In the past decade, extensive research on paper-based microfluidics has accumulated a large number of scientific publications in the fields of biomedical diagnosis, food safety, environmental health, drug screening and delivery. This review focuses on the recent progress on paper-based microfluidic technology with an emphasis on the design, optimization and application of the technology platform, in particular for medical diagnostics and drug delivery. Novel advances have concentrated on engineering paper devices for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics, which could be integrated with nucleic acid-based tests and isothermal amplification experiments, enabling rapid sample-to-answer assays for field testing. Among the isothermal amplification experiments, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), an extremely sensitive nucleic acid test, specifically identifies ultralow concentrations of DNA/RNA from practical samples for diagnosing diseases. We thus mainly focus on the paper device-based LAMP assay for the rapid infectious disease diagnosis, foodborne pathogen analysis, veterinary diagnosis, plant diagnosis, and environmental public health evaluation. We also outlined progress on paper microfluidic devices for drug delivery. The paper concludes with a discussion on the challenges of this technology and our insights into how to advance science and technology towards the development of fully functional paper devices in diagnostics and drug delivery. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a technique for determining the time index of growth of the slope of reverse voltage for double insulated cables, based on the body of the theory of series. It is proved that in the vicinity of the extremum point (maximum) the function of the reverse voltage is approximated by polynomials of the nth power. It is proposed to use second-degree polynomials for practical calculations. The method for calculating relevant indicators is illustrated using real data. Analysis of deviations made it possible to conclude that the calculation method proposed in the paper is far more accurate. In the final part of the study, it was concluded that there is a promising outlook for further development of methodological guidelines for determining complex indices of the remaining life of the cable, including but not limited to the use of various mathematical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The immune trypanolysis test ( TL) is an accurate sero-diagnostic tool increasingly implemented for sleeping sickness medical surveillance, but it is restricted to the reference laboratories. To facilitate storage and transport of the test specimen, we developed a protocol for the examination of blood spotted on filter paper ( TL-fp) that can be stored and shipped at ambient temperature. We compared its performance with the classical TL on plasma ( TL-pl) that needs to be kept frozen until use. Methods The study was conducted in active foci of the Republic of Guinea. In total, 438 specimens from treated and untreated sleeping sickness patients and serological suspects were tested with both methods. Result TL-fp gave significantly less positive results than TL-pl, but all the confirmed sleeping sickness cases were positive with the TL-fp protocol. Conclusion TL-fp appears to offer a good compromise between feasibility and sensitivity to detect currently infected subjects who play a role in the transmission of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and is useful for contributing to the elimination of gambiense sleeping sickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is currently great need for high-quality, low-cost, point-of-care diagnostics that can benefit patients in resource-limited settings and correspondingly growing interest in the diagnostic utility of microfluidic platforms that are based on paper. We describe the development, early clinical testing, and potential clinical impact of a novel paper-based, multiplexed microfluidic assay designed for rapid, semiquantitative measurement of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase in a fingerstick specimen. This device ultimately holds promise for providing universal access to affordable point-of-care screening for drug-induced liver injury in resource-limited settings and opens the door to development of similar point-of-care clinical assays for other important analytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Noroviruses are a primary cause of gastroenteritis and foodborne illness with cases that affect millions of people worldwide each year. Inexpensive tests for norovirus that do not require sophisticated laboratory equipment are important tools for ensuring that patients receive timely treatment and for containing outbreaks. Herein, we demonstrate a low-cost colorimetric assay that detects norovirus from clinical samples by combining paper-based cell-free transcription-translation systems, isothermal amplification and virus enrichment by synbodies. Using isothermal amplification and cell-free RNA sensing with toehold switches, we demonstrate that the assay enables detection of norovirus GII.4 Sydney from stool down to concentrations of 270 aM in reactions that can be directly read by eye. Furthermore, norovirus-binding synbodies and magnetic beads are used to concentrate the virus and provide a 1000-fold increase in assay sensitivity extending its detection limit to 270 zM. These results demonstrate the utility of paper-based cell-free diagnostic systems for identification of foodborne pathogens and provide a versatile diagnostic assay that can be applied to the concentration, amplification and detection of a broad range of infectious agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lateral-flow immunoassay (LFA) is an inexpensive and rapid paper-based assay that can potentially detect infectious disease biomarkers in resource-poor settings. Despite its many advantages that make it suitable for point-of-care diagnosis, LFA is limited by its inferior sensitivity relative to sophisticated laboratory-based assays. Our group previously introduced the use of a micellar aqueous two-phase system (ATPS), comprised of the nonionic Triton X-114 surfactant, to concentrate biomarkers in a sample and enhance their detection with LFA. However, achieving complete phase separation and target concentration using the Triton X-114 system required many hours, and the concentrated sample needed to be manually extracted and applied to LFA. Here, we successfully integrated the concentration and detection steps into a single step that occurs entirely within a portable paper-based diagnostic strip. In a novel approach, we applied the micellar ATPS to a 3-D paper design and effectively reduced the macroscopic phase separation time from 8 h to approximately 3 min. The 3-D design was integrated with LFA to simultaneously concentrate and detect Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH), a malaria biomarker, in both phosphate-buffered saline and fetal bovine serum within 20 min at room temperature. Compared to a conventional LFA setup with a pLDH detection limit of 10 ng μL −1 , our single-step diagnostic successfully detected pLDH at 1.0 ng μL −1 , demonstrating a 10-fold detection limit improvement and resulting in a sensitive and user-friendly assay that can be used at the point-of-care. The integration of a micellar ATPS and LFA represents a new platform that can improve and promote the use of paper-based diagnostic assays for malaria and other diseases within resource-poor settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal cancer screening by fecal occult blood testing has been an important public health test and shown to reduce colorectal cancer-related mortality. However, the low participation rate in colorectal cancer screening by the general public remains a problematic public health issue. This fact could be attributed to the complex and unpleasant operation of the screening tool.Objective: This study aimed to validate a novel toilet paper-based point-of-care test (ie, JustWipe) as a public health instrument to detect fecal occult blood and provide detailed results from the evaluation of the analytic characteristics in the clinical validation.Methods: The mechanism of fecal specimen collection by the toilet-paper device was verified with repeatability and reproducibility tests. We also evaluated the analytical characteristics of the test reagents. For clinical validation, we conducted comparisons between JustWipe and other fecal occult blood tests. The first comparison was between JustWipe and typical fecal occult blood testing in a central laboratory setting with 70 fecal specimens from the hospital. For the second comparison, a total of 58 volunteers were recruited, and JustWipe was compared with the commercially available Hemoccult SENSA in a point-of-care setting.Results: Adequate amounts of fecal specimens were collected using the toilet-paper device with small day-to-day and person-to-person variations. The limit of detection of the test reagent was evaluated to be 3.75 µg of hemoglobin per milliliter of reagent. Moreover, the test reagent also showed high repeatability (100%) on different days and high reproducibility (>96%) among different users. The overall agreement between JustWipe and a typical fecal occult blood test in a central laboratory setting was 82.9%. In the setting of point-of-care tests, the overall agreement between JustWipe and Hemoccult SENSA was 89.7%. Moreover, the usability questionnaire showed that the novel test tool had high scores in operation friendliness (87.3/100), ease of reading results (97.4/100), and information usefulness (96.1/100).Conclusions: We developed and validated a toilet paper-based fecal occult blood test for use as a point-of-care test for the rapid (in 60 seconds) and easy testing of fecal occult blood. These favorable characteristics render it a promising tool for colorectal cancer screening as a public health instrument. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in ophthalmology has promoted the development of the discipline, offering opportunities for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, patient care, and treatment outcomes. This paper aims to provide a foundational understanding of AI applications in ophthalmology, with a focus on interpreting studies related to AI-driven diagnostics. The core of our discussion is to explore various AI methods, including deep learning (DL) frameworks for detecting and quantifying ophthalmic features in imaging data, as well as using transfer learning for effective model training in limited datasets. The paper highlights the importance of high-quality, diverse datasets for training AI models and the need for transparent reporting of methodologies to ensure reproducibility and reliability in AI studies. Furthermore, we address the clinical implications of AI diagnostics, emphasizing the balance between minimizing false negatives to avoid missed diagnoses and reducing false positives to prevent unnecessary interventions. The paper also discusses the ethical considerations and potential biases in AI models, underscoring the importance of continuous monitoring and improvement of AI systems in clinical settings. In conclusion, this paper serves as a primer for ophthalmologists seeking to understand the basics of AI in their field, guiding them through the critical aspects of interpreting AI studies and the practical considerations for integrating AI into clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The identification of asymptomatic individuals with Plasmodium falciparum infection is difficult because they do not seek medical treatment and often have too few asexual parasites detectable using microscopy or rapid diagnostic tests (≤ 200 parasites per μl). Quantitative PCR (qPCR) may provide greater sensitivity and permits estimation of the initial template DNA concentration. This study examined the hypothesis that qPCR assays using templates with higher copy numbers may be more sensitive for P. falciparum than assays based on templates with lower copy numbers. Methods: To test this hypothesis, ten qPCR assays for DNA sequences with template copy numbers from 1 to 160 were compared using parasite DNA standards (n = 2) and smear-positive filter paper blots from asymptomatic smear-positive subjects (n = 96). Results: Based on the testing of P. falciparum parasite DNA standards and filter paper blots, cycle threshold values decreased as the concentrations of template DNA and template copy numbers increased (p < 0.001). Likewise, the analytical and clinical sensitivities of qPCR assays for P. falciparum DNA (based on DNA standards and filter paper blots, respectively) increased with template copy number. Despite the gains in clinical sensitivity from increased template copy numbers, qPCR assays failed to detect more than half of the filter paper blots with low parasite densities (≤ 200 asexual parasites per μl). Conclusions: These results confirm the hypothesis that the sensitivity of qPCR for P. falciparum in the blood of individuals with asymptomatic infection increases with template copy number. However, because even the most sensitive qPCR assays (with template copy numbers from 32 to 160) detected fewer than 50% of infections with ≤ 200 asexual parasites per μl, the sensitivity of qPCR must be increased further to identify all smear-positive, asymptomatic individuals in order to interrupt transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exponential improvements made in DNA sequencing technologies, together with the rapidly declining associated costs, has increasingly led to the expansion of the field of personalised genomic medicine. Changes in the sequence or copy number of specific deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules represent key signatures for the diagnosis, prognosis, classification and monitoring of a broad range of pathologies, most notably cancer. Technologies that can detect these changes require analytical tools that can detect DNA or RNA with high sensitivity and high specificity. Sensing based on bioorthogonal oligonucleotide-templated reactions (OTRs) has been recognised as an elegant strategy that satisfies these criteria and was successfully used for the quantitative detection of nucleic acids both in vitro and in vivo. Herein, we will focus on recent efforts to implement bioorthogonal OTRs into clinically useful biosensors using probes immobilised on or embedded in customised materials and platforms.

The article explains the different types of on-board diagnostic systems (OBD) used in motor vehicles, as well as the impact of the latest automotive security norms on diagnostic interface security. The paper focuses on identifying potential security threats in on-board diagnostic systems used in automotive control units. During the research, a diagnostic interface device of its own design, carrying out special test procedures, was excavated. The research was conducted on several vehicles and ECUs, applying black box penetration testing. The paper's goal is to list all identified vulnerabilities in diagnostic protocol implementation and suggest some corrective actions for software that would increase security. The authors defined a list of low-cost software requirements that can be easily implemented on most modern ECUs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral Cancer (OC) is the most unsafe of all dental disease, while person unusual and getting little notice. It ranks 12th among all malignancies. OC has a multifaceted etiology, and much like other cancer, early recognition is critical to dropping enduring distress and boosting endurance charge. The frequency and decease rates of OC have augmented internationally, which has accelerated these study pains in the area of premature recognition and anticipation of this sickness. As an outcome, scientists have been pointed used for biopsy substitute. OC has been recognized using a diversity of molecularly based diagnostic marker, with different degree of consideration and specificity. The occurrence, humanity, risk factor, prediction, and treatment of OC are all enclosed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document provides a list of references to scientific articles and papers related to topics such as Alzheimer's disease, cognitive decline, virtual reality, and machine learning. The articles cover a range of subjects including biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, cognitive training interventions, the use of virtual reality in assessing cognitive impairment, and the application of machine learning in healthcare. These references can be helpful for library patrons conducting research on these specific topics. [Extracted from the article]

In the current era, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly pervasive with applications in several applicative fields effectively changing our daily life. In this scenario, machine learning (ML), a subset of AI techniques, provides machines with the ability to programmatically learn from data to model a system while adapting to new situations as they learn more by data they are ingesting (on-line training). During the last several years, many papers have been published concerning ML applications in the field of solar systems. This paper presents the state of the art ML models applied in solar energy's forecasting field i.e., for solar irradiance and power production forecasting (both point and interval or probabilistic forecasting), electricity price forecasting and energy demand forecasting. Other applications of ML into the photovoltaic (PV) field taken into account are the modelling of PV modules, PV design parameter extraction, tracking the maximum power point (MPP), PV systems efficiency optimization, PV/Thermal (PV/T) and Concentrating PV (CPV) system design parameters' optimization and efficiency improvement, anomaly detection and energy management of PV's storage systems. While many review papers already exist in this regard, they are usually focused only on one specific topic, while in this paper are gathered all the most relevant applications of ML for solar systems in many different fields. The paper gives an overview of the most recent and promising applications of machine learning used in the field of photovoltaic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This editorial introduces the concept of photoplethysmography (PPG), a technique used to detect blood volume changes in tissue with each heartbeat. PPG has gained popularity due to its applications in assessing the cardiovascular system, monitoring vital signs, and studying pain. The editorial highlights the growing body of literature on PPG's relation to various physiological factors and its potential for detecting heart arrhythmias. It also mentions the integration of PPG with wearable devices and artificial intelligence for health monitoring. The Research Topic in this journal showcases 16 original research papers covering diverse contributions in PPG measurement and analysis, including monitoring age-related changes in the cardiovascular system, classifying PPG waveforms, assessing temporal complexity in PPG and its influence on blood pressure, and using PPG for clinical monitoring in neonatal intensive care. The article discusses various studies related to non-invasive monitoring of physiological parameters using PPG technology, such as monitoring intracranial pressure, detecting heartbeats, classifying systemic sclerosis, estimating blood pressure, assessing pain, and evaluating small fiber neuropathy. The findings of these studies demonstrate the potential of PPG technology in various clinical applications, and the authors hope that this research will contribute to the advancement of PPG technology and its applications in healthcare and well-being. [Extracted from the article]

This paper addresses the issue of LED short-circuit fault detection in signaling and lighting systems in the automotive industry. The conventional diagnostic method commonly implemented in newer vehicles relies on measuring the voltage drop across different LED branches and comparing it with threshold values indicating faults caused by open circuits or LED short circuits. With this algorithm, detecting cases of a few LEDs short-circuited within a branch, particularly a single malfunctioning LED, is particularly challenging. In this work, two easily implementable algorithms are proposed to address this issue within the vehicle's control unit. One is based on a mathematical prediction model, while the other utilizes a neural network. The results obtained offer a 100% LED short-circuit fault detection rate in the majority of analyzed cases, representing a significant improvement over the conventional method, even in scenarios involving a single malfunctioning LED within a branch. Additionally, the neural network-based model can accurately predict the number of failed LEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology capable of measuring, processing, and extracting contact resistance parameters that enable the identification of the contact degradation level inside arc extinction chambers in medium- and high-voltage circuit breakers (CB). To determine the contact degradation level, an algorithm was developed to extract the characteristic parameters from the results of dynamic resistance measurement (DRM). To analyze the dataset parameters, this work employs the combination of different statistical tools, such as boxplots and fuzzy logic, enabling the evaluation to be conducted without the subjectivity inherent in human decision. Therefore, a more objective and reliable diagnosis could be achieved. The DRM tests were performed on two types of minimum-oil CB (MOCB), 800 A/15 kV/12.5 kA (CB-A) and 2000 A/72.5 kV/31.5 kA (CB-B and CB-C). For CB-A and CB-B, three contacts were utilized for each CB, with significant contact degradation. For CB-C, a single contact was employed without significant degradation. The DRM curves of the CB-C contact were used as the reference for evaluation of the CB-B contacts. For this purpose, a new DRM system was developed. The proposed methodology can be defined as a complement for other diagnostic techniques, serving as a non-subjective asset management tool, supporting decisions regarding equipment interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second-life applications for lithium-ion batteries offer the industry opportunities to defer recycling costs, enhance economic value, and reduce environmental impacts. An accurate prognosis of the remaining useful life (RUL) is essential for ensuring effective second-life operation. Diagnosis is a necessary step for the establishment of a reliable prognosis, based on the aging modes involved in a cell. This paper introduces a method for characterizing specific aging phenomenon in Graphite/Lithium Iron Phosphate (G/LFP) cells. This method aims to identify aging related to the loss of active material at the negative electrode (LAMNE). The identification and tracking of the state of health (SoH) are based on Incremental Capacity Analysis (ICA) and Differential Voltage Analysis (DVA) peak-tracking techniques. The remaining capacity of the electrode is thus evaluated based on these diagnostic results, using a model derived from half-cell electrode characterization. The method is used on a G/LFP cell in the format 18650, with a nominal capacity of 1.1 Ah, aged from its pristine state to 40% of state of health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new fault-tolerant control approach for gas turbines, based on fuzzy techniques that allow real-time observation of their behavior. The approach consists of detecting and locating faults, and then determining the appropriate control action to keep the turbine in stable operation. This improves the efficiency and lifespan of the turbine, and reduces maintenance costs with optimal planning. The state space model of the turbine is subjected to a diagnostic procedure based on Type-1 and Type-2 fuzzy models, using the operational data of the different operating points studied. The Luenberger observer is used in the fault detection mechanism, to characterize turbine component malfunctions by comparing the observed real behaviors and the fuzzy models. The results show that the fault-tolerant fuzzy control has ensured the stability and availability of the turbine during fault occurrence, with good performance in detection, isolation and reconfiguration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Uroflowmetry is a noninvasive measurement of the volume of urine excreted over time. Conventional uroflowmetry has become the main modality of urine flow measurement within time. However, this method requires the patient to be present in the hospital or healthcare setting, thus sometimes making the patients feel uncomfortable to undergo the examination. This led to multiple measurements which are inconvenient for the patients. Mobile acoustic uroflowmetry (sono‐uroflowmetry) has been proposed as an alternative method of urine flow measurement due to its portability. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of sono‐uroflowmetry as compared to conventional uroflowmetry. Methods: Electronic databases searching were done using prespecified search strategy to retrieve articles related with uroflowmetry. In addition, hand‐search strategy was used to identify additional articles. Studies with participants who had undergone sono‐uroflowmetry were included. Voided volume, voiding duration, maximum flow rate, and average flow rate were identified and used to determine the outcomes of measurement. The quality of included articles was conducted using checklist for Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies by JBI. Results: Initial search yielded 335 articles with four additional papers identified through hand‐searching process. Six papers were retrieved and further used in the narrative synthesis. Five studies enrolled male participants, while only one of the papers enrolled female participants as additional subgroup analysis. Therefore, the meta‐analysis was performed by using only male participants. Based on the meta‐analysis results, there were strong to very strong positive correlation in voided volume, voiding time, average flow, average flow rate, and maximum flow rate between sono and conventional uroflowmetry. Conclusion: Sonouroflowmetry showed significant positive correlations to conventional uroflowmetry, signifying its use as an alternative of conventional uroflowmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are several classifications that describe the way materials function in the body. Devices that mimic a portion or function of the body in a safe, dependable, cost-effective, and physiologically appropriate way are made using biomaterials. Numerous tools and substances are now employed in the treatment of illness or injury, including everyday objects like tooth fillings, sutures, needles, catheters, plates, and so on. As time goes on, a synthetic substance that functions in close contact with live tissue or replaces a portion of a biological system might be summed up as a biomaterial. A biomaterial is described as "a systemically and pharmacologically inert substance designed for implantation within or incorporation with living things" by the Clemson University Advisory Board for Biomaterials. Materials, whether synthetic or natural, that may be utilized in any system that treats, enhances, or substitutes any organ, tissue, or bodily function for any length of time or on the other hand, a biological substance is one that is created by a biological system, like skin or an artery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phrase "Multi-Power System (MPS)" refers to an application that combines different energy conversion technologies to meet a specific energy need. These integrated power systems are rapidly being lauded as essential for future decarbonized grids to achieve optimum efficiency and cost reduction. The fact that MPSs multiply several sources also multiplies their advantages to be environmentally friendly and increases the possibility of energy autonomy as they do not depend on a single source. Consequently, this increases the reliability and reduces the production costs and the size of the storage system. However, the main disadvantages of such a system are the complexity of its architecture and the difficulty in managing the power level, which leads the system to face many faults and sometimes failure. In this case, a fault-tolerant control (FTC) system can automatically adapt to component malfunctions while maintaining closed-loop system stability to achieve acceptable performance. However, on the way to build efficient FTC, one first needs to study the faults that may occur in the system in order to tolerate them. This review paper presents the faults of the MPS electrical sources used in a hybrid system, including a photovoltaic generator and a diesel generator, plus a lead–acid battery as a storage device. Only the most-encountered faults are treated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contact connections in electrical machines and apparatus are important elements in the whole power supply network and a high level of reliability is expected there. Contact resistance is a fundamental criterion in the design of an electrical contact or contact system. The contact resistance should be as low as possible to minimize losses due to the current passage and the related heating of the contact connection. The value of the contact resistance depends on the material used, the value of the applied force, the type of contact, and, last but not least, the quality of the surface and chemical layers. In this paper, an initial diagnosis of the contact material is performed based on the determination of the sample's specific resistivity by the four-wire method and the evaluation of the measurement uncertainty. The work is followed by the design of a testing device that uses crossed bars to measure the change in contact resistance as a function of the magnitude of the applied force. An analysis of the sample mounting method is performed here using FEM simulations of the current field and shows the interaction between the holder and the sample in terms of current line transfer. The proposed system is then used for experimental measurements of the material-dependent coefficient KC for verification of existing or newly developed materials in electrical engineering, where the values of the KC coefficient are not known. Finally, the paper also deals with the measurement of fritting voltage for individual contact pairs having surface quality corresponding to brushing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things are definitely running parallel to humankind and the edge of being faster from humans in work is coming with its own complexities. The researchers in the paper will explore and lift the veil of the usage and implication of AI and IoT in the healthcare sector. The need of maximizing the benefits and sown the seeds of AI, while ensuring minimum risks and potential costs shows the path to need of an AI policy. Healthcare can exponentially improve the productivity and efficiency of the industry and lives of people. Humankind invented and introduced new machines into the lives of people to ensure a smooth living. The covid'19 response to the use of AI and better patient care has been a practice recently initiated and they assist in detection and diagnostics. A lot of data is analyzed to predict patients' outcomes through their electronic health records which also posses a threat to the privacy of an individual. The paper shows the tussle between policies and practice of usage of AI and legal stand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this systematic review is to synthesize and analyze immersive virtual reality technologies, wearable health monitoring sensors, and machine learning-based automated diagnostic systems. With increasing evidence of healthcare diagnosis and treatment in the metaverse, there is an essential demand for comprehending whether Internet of Things-based smart healthcare systems integrate physiological and behavioral sensors as regards 3D virtual avatars in the management of chronic conditions. In this research, prior findings were cumulated indicating that body sensor networks, cloud-based personalized healthcare systems, and holographic simulation techniques further immersive 3D experiences in virtual diagnostic environments. I carried out a quantitative literature review of ProQuest, Scopus, and the Web of Science throughout June 2022, with search terms including “metaverse healthcare data” + “smart wearable sensing systems,” “immersive 3D experiences,” and “virtual diagnostic environments.” As I analyzed research published in 2022, only 138 papers met the eligibility criteria. By removing controversial or unclear findings (scanty/unimportant data), results unsupported by replication, undetailed content, or papers having quite similar titles, I decided on 33, chiefly empirical, sources. Data visualization tools: Dimensions (bibliometric mapping) and VOSviewer (layout algorithms). Reporting quality assessment tool: PRISMA. Methodological quality assessment tools include: AXIS, Distiller SR, ROBIS, and SRDR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This work was aimed at developing a prototype system based on multispectral digital photogrammetry to support tests required by international regulations for new Plant Protection Products (PPPs). In particular, the goal was to provide a system addressing the challenges of a new PPP evaluation with a higher degree of objectivity with respect to the current one, which relies on expert evaluations. The system uses Digital Photogrammetry, which is applied to multispectral acquisitions and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The goal of this paper is also to simplify the present screening process, moving it towards more objective and quantitative scores about phytotoxicity. The implementation of an opportunely trained AI model for phytotoxicity prediction aims to convert ordinary human visual observations, which are presently provided with a discrete scale (forbidding a variance analysis), into a continuous variable. The technical design addresses the need for a reduced dataset for training the AI model and relating discrete observations, as usually performed, to some proxy variables derived from the photogrammetric multispectral 3D model. To achieve this task, an appropriate photogrammetric multispectral system was designed. The system operates in multi-nadiral-view mode over a bench within a greenhouse exploiting an active system for lighting providing uniform and diffuse illumination. The whole system is intended to reduce the environmental variability of acquisitions tending to a standard situation. The methodology combines advanced image processing, image radiometric calibration, and machine learning techniques to predict the General Phytotoxicity percentage index (PHYGEN), a crucial measure of phytotoxicity. Results show that the system can generate reliable estimates of PHYGEN, compliant with existing accuracy standards (even from previous PPPs symptom severity models), using limited training datasets. The proposed solution addressing this challenge is the adoption of the Logistic Function with LASSO model regularization that has been shown to overcome the limitations of a small sample size (typical of new PPP trials). Additionally, it provides the estimate of a numerical continuous index (a percentage), which makes it possible to tackle the objectivity problem related to human visual evaluation that is presently based on an ordinal discrete scale. In our opinion, the proposed prototype system could have significant potential in improving the screening process for new PPPs. In fact, it works specifically for new PPPs screening and, despite this, it has an accuracy consistent with the one ordinarily accepted for human visual approaches. Additionally, it provides a higher degree of objectivity and repeatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cacao swollen shoot disease (CSSD) caused by complexes of cacao swollen shoot badnaviruses (family Caulimoviridae, genus Badnavirus) remains highly prevalent and devastating in West Africa. The disease continues to impact substantially on cacao yield loss, cacao tree mortality, and decline in foreign exchange income from cacao bean sales. Currently, the disease is estimated to have a prevalence rate of over 30% in Ghana, as assessed in the ongoing third country-wide surveillance program. Although achievements from past research interventions have greatly elucidated the etiology, biology, epidemiology, diagnostics, and management of the disease, there are some outstanding knowledge gaps. The role of these information gaps and their effect on CSSD epidemiology and prevalence remain unanswered. This paper summarizes existing scientific knowledge from past research achievements that have provided elucidation on CSSD epidemiology, management options, and guided future research. The discussion highlights the need for multidisciplinary research with modern tools and institutional collaborators to holistically bring clarity on knowledge gaps on pathogen biology, virus–host-–vector interactions, role of environmental and soil nutrient effects on CSSD severity, evolution pattern, role of alternative hosts on virus species diversity, vector population dynamics, and their overall impact on CSSD prevalence and integrated management in cacao plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the vibrations of centrifugal loop dryer machines used in plastic recycling processes. These machines are characterized by large uncertainties, high vibration, and unmodeled dynamics, making the design and maintenance of real-time state estimators for their operational conditions difficult. The present study includes an analysis of the centrifugal loop dryer machines' vibration characteristics and their influence on operation results based on vibration analysis, frequency response analysis, and expert advice. Two identical loop dryers installed and operated in parallel in a single recycling line were investigated. Measurements were performed using a two-sample measurement design and based on a one-sample statistical method for estimating uncertainty in repeated measurements of data processing. Additionally, a problem connected with incorrect machine operation during high vibration, resulting in insufficient drying of loaded material, was investigated. This was defined as a situation in which some melted plastic is still too wet after mechanical drying, caused by the incorrect installation of damper elements of the holding elements. Finaly, it is recommended that a correction of the machine installation and a control measurement are carried out to determine whether the vibration in the base of the machine still exists. A simplified theoretical vibration analysis of the rotating machine was also carried out in the present paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With growing demands for diagnosing COVID-19 definite cases, employing radiological images, i.e., the chest X-ray, is becoming challenging. Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNN) propose effective automated models to detect COVID_19 positive cases. In order to improve the total accuracy, this paper proposes using the novel Trigonometric Function (TF) instead of the existing gradient descendent-based training method for training fully connected layers to have a COVID-19 detector with parallel implementation ability. The designed model gets then benchmarked on a verified dataset denominated COVID-Xray-5k. The results get investigated by qualified research with classic DCNN, BWC, and MSAD. The results confirm that the produced detector can present competitive results compared to the benchmark detection models. The paper also examines the class activation map theory to detect the areas probably infected by the Covid-19 virus. As experts confirm, the obtained results get correlated with the clinical recognitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recently developed blood typing diagnostic based on a polyester thread substrate has shown great promise for use in medical emergencies and in impoverished regions. The device is easy to use and transport, while also being inexpensive, accurate, and rapid. This study used a fluorescent confocal microscope to delve deeper into how red blood cells were behaving within the polyester thread-based diagnostic at the cellular level, and how plasma separation could be made to visibly occur on the thread, making it possible to identify blood type in a single step. Red blood cells were stained and the plasma phase dyed with fluorescent compounds to enable them to be visualised under the confocal microscope at high magnification. The mechanisms uncovered were in surprising contrast with those found for a similar, paper-based method. Red blood cell aggregates did not flow over each other within the thread substrate as expected, but suffered from a restriction to their flow which resulted in the chromatographic separation of the RBCs from the liquid phase of the blood. It is hoped that these results will lead to the optimisation of the method to enable more accurate and sensitive detection, increasing the range of blood systems that can be detected. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has a global prevalence of around 4.1% and is associated with a low quality of life and increased healthcare costs. Current guidelines recommend that IBS is diagnosed using the symptom-based Rome IV criteria. Despite this, when patients seek medical attention, they are usually over-investigated. This issue might be resolved by novel technologies in medicine, such as the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this context, this paper aims to review AI applications in IBS. AI in colonoscopy proved to be useful in organic lesion detection and diagnosis and in objectively assessing the quality of the procedure. Only a recently published study talked about the potential of AI-colonoscopy in IBS. AI was also used to study biofilm characteristics in the large bowel and establish a potential relationship with IBS. Moreover, an AI algorithm was developed in order to correlate specific bowel sounds with IBS. In addition to that, AI-based smartphone applications have been developed to facilitate the monitoring of IBS symptoms. From a therapeutic standpoint, an AI system was created to recommend specific diets based on an individual's microbiota. In conclusion, future IBS diagnosis and treatment may benefit from AI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the methods of assessing the technical condition of varistor surge arresters used in laboratory tests and in operation—performed without disconnecting the arresters from the network. The analysis of the diagnostic methods was supplemented with the results of the measurements of the leakage current of arresters coming directly from their production and used in the power industry. Among the available methods of evaluating the technical condition of arresters, mainly indicator solutions (temperature and operation counter) and the measurement of the selected parameters of the leakage current are used. In the latter, the method of determining the resistive component of the leakage current, determined on the basis of the analysis of the voltage and current waveforms, or only the arrester current, has become widespread. In this type of measurement, current clamps are used in the operation, and additionally, in voltage measurements, voltage transformers are used, where you have to take into account the fundamental, additional sources of errors discussed in the article. These errors and the dispersion resulting from the production technology may fundamentally hinder the proper assessment of the technical condition; hence, it is so important to properly recognize the listed basic sources of measurement uncertainty. In addition, the analysis should take into account three factors related to external conditions: temperature, the voltage applied to the arrester, and the content of higher harmonics in the supply voltage, for which appropriate methods have been provided to determine the active component of the leakage current for reference conditions. This article presents the results of the measurements of the leakage currents of surge arresters measured with various methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Notre article argumente l'intérêt de la dimension du contact, telle que saisie par la phénoménologie psychiatrique, pour les cliniciens orientés par la psychanalyse et travaillant en psychiatrie. Nous situons d'abord le contact par rapport aux concepts de transfert et de contre-transfert, en proposant d'inverser la logique faisant du contact une sous-dimension de la dynamique transféro-contre-transférentielle. Nous affirmons au contraire que le contact, comme dimension « basale » de l'expérience humaine, colore cette dynamique dans l'ici et le maintenant de chaque séance. Afin d'estimer l'intérêt de l'usage de la dimension contactuelle comme indicateur diagnostique, nous élargissons la logique du Praecox Gefülh pour proposer une démarche de typification des grandes formes cliniques rencontrées en psychiatrie faisant du contact non un signe métonymique de la maladie, mais un objet structurellement homothétique à l'entité clinique dont souffre le sujet. Nous prenons l'exemple de quatre configurations du contact : la perte de la vitalité dans la schizophrénie ; l'introuvable authenticité de l'hystérique ; l'impossible fluidité chez le mélancolique ; l'échec de l'ancrage maniaque. Nous proposons, que certaines modalités contactuelles seraient des « anti-contact », empêchant une véritable rencontre clinicien-patient d'avoir lieu. Nous affirmons que l'étude du contact pourrait devenir, pour les cliniciens orientés par la psychanalyse comme pour ceux travaillant avec la phénoménologie, un élément fondamental de la psychiatrie dimensionnelle, à rebours des logiques étiologiques de la psychiatrie biologique. The clinician who adopts a psychoanalytic approach in a psychiatric context often regards the encounter between two individuals as an interplay of subjectivities, whose mode of being-in-the-world is shaped by their unique historical experiences. Despite some psychoanalytic authors exploring the concept of "contact," it has often been reduced to its similarity with transference and countertransference, with little attention given to its distinctive qualities. This limits psychoanalysis in its ability to conceptualize an unmediated, preverbal encounter between two individuals. In this article, we argue that the dimension of "contact" cannot be equated with transference, and that it constitutes a vital tool for diagnosing and guiding therapy for various clinical conditions commonly encountered in psychiatry. This article is based on theoretical considerations. We first worked on the history of the concept of contact, then of Praecox Gefühl in the works of H.C. Rümke, to which we added the findings of current studies on the relevance of Praecox Gefühl in the diagnosis of schizophrenia and the study of the works of the great phenomenological psychiatrists. In so doing, we aimed to show that contact could be a tool of great use for psychiatric diagnosis, insofar that it allows for a typification of the forms of existence of different patients. H.C. Rümke's investigation of the concept of Praecox Gefühl highlights the unique mode of contact observed in schizophrenia. It is distinct from the feeling of strangeness and involves an intuitive observation of a perceived distance within the clinical relationship. Given that many psychiatric pathologies can cause patients to withdraw from the shared world, we suggest that the notion of Praecox Gefühl , beyond its original designation of the clinician's experience of schizophrenic dissociation and the particularities of the schizophrenic mode of being-in-the-world, may be applicable to other pathologies studied in psychiatric phenomenology. We propose four main forms of contact: the loss of vitality in schizophrenia, the untraceable authenticity of the hysteric, the impossible fluidity in the melancholic, and the failure of anchorage in mania. By approaching contact as a fractal form that reveals the entire mode of the subject's being-in-the-world, this typifying approach goes beyond a purely semiological or etiological reflection and can be diagnostically useful in guiding therapeutic efforts to enhance the subject's capacity to truly engage with others. Our paper focuses on the relationship between contact and what clinicians commonly refer to as an "encounter". It is important to recognize that contact is not always equivalent to an encounter, and that assuming otherwise risks overlooking the possibility that certain relational modalities could actively prevent such an encounter from taking place. These "anti-contact" modalities, exemplified by the Praecox Gefühl , necessitate a focus on the very possibility of being in a therapeutic relationship with the clinician. Therefore, we suggest that clinicians should work to establish the possibility of being in a relation with the patient, prior to attempting to create an encounter. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of the ways in which patients can either facilitate or hinder the development of an encounter, and highlights the importance of working on establishing the possibility of a real encounter and being-with the clinician. This paper has sought to challenge the prevailing assumption among psychoanalytically oriented clinicians that contact is merely a sub-dimension of the transferential dynamic. Instead, we have argued that contact warrants specific attention as a tool for both diagnosis and therapy in psychiatry. By examining the example of the Praecox Gefülh , we have proposed a typifying approach that could be applied to the most common clinical entities encountered in psychiatry, based on the clinician's perception of specific modalities of contact within the therapeutic consultation. This reflection on contact and anti-contact is a necessary and contemporary contribution to the psychiatric field, which is increasingly embracing a dimensional approach to psychological pathologies. By prioritizing the dimension of contact, we can deepen our understanding of the nuances of the therapeutic relationship and can enhance our ability to help patients overcome barriers to connection and encounter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a valuable imaging modality widely used in the management of cancers. Its usage is well defined for most head and neck malignancies. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding the utility of PET scan for sinonasal malignancies. This is highlighted by the latest international consensus statement on endoscopic skull base surgery. Objective: This systematic review aims to clarify the role of PET scan in the management of sinonasal malignancies. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search using PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases for research studies of interest. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) updated statement was used to guide the review. Results: In total, 1807 articles were assessed for eligibility. Thirty-nine original papers, published between 2004 and 2021, met inclusion criteria. Seven articles focused on the role of PET scan for inverted papilloma, 23 for sinonasal carcinoma, 4 for melanoma, and 3 for lymphoma, and finally, 3 articles focused on the use of specific PET scan tracers for sinonasal malignancies. Qualitative summaries for each potential role of PET scans were provided. In general, included studies were retrospective in nature with low level of evidence. Conclusions: In general, and across all types of sinonasal malignancies, PET scan yielded positive results regarding detection and initial staging. It was also considered as the modality of choice for detection of distant metastases, except in the case of sinonasal lymphoma. PET scan's main limit resides in its inability to detect lesions in or close to the metabolic activity of the brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factitious disorder represents a category of mental disorders still insufficiently known and diagnosed, which requires more studies and research for a better understanding of all its social and psychological characteristics and to discover a treatment that is as suitable for patients. Also, the positive diagnosis is often very difficult to be establish and not only psychiatrists are involved, but also other medical specialties or health professionals, with an impact on the general population by all the consequences and the costs. This is because patients can present only with physical symptoms or only with mental symptoms or with both. The association with other medical conditions or other mental disorders, which must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible, must also be taken into account. The prognosis is generally reserved, and the therapeutic options are still discussed among the specialists. That's why in this paper we present an overview, regarding the information provided by the specialized literature on this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to present a review of the causes, diagnostics, and effects of periimplantitis. To find relevant publications we used Google Scholar and PubMed as our databases and searched for articles from the years 20112021. Initial search results returned over 16000 articles in Google Scholar and 619 articles in PubMed, so a series of filters and criteria were used to select 28 papers used in this review. We found that periimplantitis represents an inflammation that affects both the hard and soft tissue around an implant. The most common cause of the disease is the accumulation of dental plaque around the dental implant. Periimplantitis is diagnosed by the following clinic signs and symptoms: swelling of the tissue around the implant, bleeding of the gingiva upon probing, the presence of harmful types of pathogen bacteria and bone crestal resorption (determined by radiologic evaluation). Many studies covered in this review were conducted on animals, using ligatures around the neck of the inserted implants to induce periimplantitis. Observations made while studying periimplantitis in animal trials can serve as a model for preventing, diagnosing, and treating periimplantitis in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]