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The possibility of analyzing the general and functional diversity of the ecosystem is considered, as is unambiguous interpretation of the results obtained based on our work experience and previously obtained data. The prospects for studying small mammals without removal from the wild are discussed. We discuss distinguishing in a sample the resident component, which makes it possible to characterize local resource flows, and the nonresident component, dependent on the state of the territory as a whole. A description of the capture–mark–recapture protocol, methods for assessing spatial activity, calculating the density of the resident population per unit area, and the completeness of species richness estimate is provided. The estimates of animal numbers per unit of trapping effort in pooled sample, the population density of residents, and the index of the nonresident flow are compared. The possibility of analyzing the resource flows in "historical," "novel," and "hybrid" ecosystems, as well as using data to analyze the resilience of the ecosystem and detect the threshold point, is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Printable biosensors have gained numerous exciting advancements towards downstream applications in fundamental biomedical research, healthcare, food safety, environmental monitoring and governance, and to name a few. Particularly, paper-based printable biosensors have gained rising popularity in providing affordable platforms due to their merits, such as cost-effective, accurate, simple, and efficient detection of diseases for clinical diagnosis. In addition to advantages and opportunities in point-of-care detection, printable biosensors are also facing challenges. Herein, this review aims to provide a systematic summary of the development of printable biosensors, with a special focus on paper-based printable biosensors. Different types of substrates for printable biosensors are highlighted with a focus on paper substrates which have superior properties like low-cost, simple, flexible, lightweight, recyclable, etc. In addition, current printing technologies to fabricate paper-based sensors, including wax printing, photolithography, screen printing, inkjet printing, and laser printing summarize, are discussed, together with strategies for biomolecular fabrication on substrates and transducers. Finally, we also discuss the challenges and possible future perspectives, hoping to provide researchers and clinicians with informative insights into paper-based printable biosensors for smart and effective point-of-care detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensor arrays, which draw inspiration from the mammalian olfactory system, are fundamental concepts in high-throughput analysis based on pattern recognition. Although numerous optical sensor arrays for various targets in aqueous media have demonstrated their diverse applications in a wide range of research fields, practical device platforms for on-site analysis have not been satisfactorily established. The significant limitations of these sensor arrays lie in their solution-based platforms, which require stationary spectrophotometers to record the optical responses in chemical sensing. To address this, this review focuses on paper substrates as device components for solid-state sensor arrays. Paper-based sensor arrays (PSADs) embedded with multiple detection sites having cross-reactivity allow rapid and simultaneous chemical sensing using portable recording apparatuses and powerful data-processing techniques. The applicability of office printing technologies has promoted the realization of PSADs in real-world scenarios, including environmental monitoring, healthcare diagnostics, food safety, and other relevant fields. In this review, we discuss the methodologies of device fabrication and imaging analysis technologies for pattern recognition-driven chemical sensing in aqueous media. [Display omitted] • Cross-reactive sensors are applied to paper-based arrays for simultaneous detection. • Portable digital recorders can be used for detecting various responses. • Imaging analysis techniques can accelerate accurate data processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic paper-based point-of-care assays are a highly valuable technology with many promising applications in public health and environmental monitoring. High-sensitivity detection of certain trace substances is one of the critical important considerations for practical usage of microfluidic point-of-care techniques. Over the past decade, luminescence nanoprobes have been increasingly emerged as powerful toolboxes to achieve exceptional sensitivity and low detection limits for many chemical sensors. In this Review, we provide an overview of the fundamental principles underlying paper-based microfluidic point-of-care detection. We highlight various luminescence nanoprobes, including nano-diamonds, upconversion luminescent nanoparticles, inorganic quantum dots, and carbon dots, along with their corresponding sensing mechanisms. In subsequent sections, we emphasize the requisite utilization of specialized readout equipment for the effective implementation of fluorescence detection. Moreover, we summarize key microfluidic design strategies capable of achieving enhanced precision in the detection processes. We also discuss future research directions and the main challenges to be addressed for fluorescence nanoprobes-inspired paper-based microfluidic point-of-care technology. • Microfluidic point-of-care paper-based Luminescence assays. • Luminescence nanoprobes and corresponding mechanism. • Portable devices for signal readout and diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel filter paper patterning method based on parylene C. • A paper-based colorimetric sensor for detection of Al (III) using a smartphone platform. • The detection range of the sensor for Al (III) detection is 0.05 to 10 mg/mL. The detection limit is 0.05 mg/mL. • The assembled paper-based smartphone sensor platform has the potential to detect other biochemical molecules. The paper-based analytical platforms have been applied in biochemical detection and environmental monitoring due to their low cost and easy operation. Despite their advantages, the complexity of fabrication has limited their further application. Here, a simple and innovative approach using parylene C, a material commonly used in semiconductors, is reported to fabricate paper-based chips and construct a point-of-care testing (POCT) platform through smartphones. Parylene C is deposited on the filter paper through a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) clamp and forms a hydrophobic barrier. A three-channel paper-based chip was utilized to detect aluminum (Al) ions on a smartphone platform by the chromogenic method. The color change after Al3+ detection is represented with △E which was photographed and calculated by app on smartphone. The detection limit is 0.05 mg/L and the detection range is from 0.05 mg/L to 10 mg/L which indicates the application potential in the field of biochemical detection. This new paper-based sensing method and smartphone-based portable detection platform are simple, low-cost, fast, and highly sensitive, and provides a potential application for on-site, visual detection of ions and even other substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainable goal of technological advancement is to go from lab to site through the development of a sensitive, specific and portable sensor for pollution monitoring. Herein, we report a completely portable colorimetric prototype device for the selective monitoring of lead (Pb) pollution, mainly in air, which relies on a new aspect of analysing the colorimetric assays on paper strips by the direct measurement of the retroreflective information, other than the available tedious image analysis methods. Our indigenously developed citrate-functionalized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) embedded in cellulose paper strips showed significant localized surface plasmonic resonance (LSPR) peaks in the blue region and with the increase in the Pb concentration, the LSPR band in the blue region decreased and a new peak appeared in the green region of the electromagnetic spectrum due to the formation of larger aggregates. The prototype device monitored these spectral changes and accordingly gave the Pb content present in the sample. In this work, we made the sample under study by the acid digestion of one of the widely present air-suspended particulates, i.e., PbO2. The prototype device is a suitable fielddeployable technique for environmental Pb sensing and will open up new perspectives for future advancement in low-cost paper-based sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and up‐to‐date biodiversity forecasts enable robust planning for environmental management and conservation of landscapes under a wide range of uses. Future predictions of the species composition of ecological communities complement more frequently reported species richness estimates to better characterize the different dimensions of biodiversity. The models that make community composition forecasts are calibrated with data on species' geographic patterns for the present, which may not be good proxies for future patterns. The future establishment of novel communities represents data on species interactions unaccounted for by these models. However, detecting them in a systematic way presents challenges due to the lack of monitoring data for landscapes with high environmental turnover, where such communities are likely to establish. Here, we propose lightweight monitoring over both ecological and anthropogenic disturbance gradients using passive sensors (i.e., those that operate continuously without much human input) to detect novel communities with the aim of updating models that make community composition forecasts. Monitoring over these two gradients should maximize detection of novel communities and improve understanding of relationships between community composition and environmental change. Further, barriers regarding cost and effort are reduced by using relatively few sensors requiring minimal upkeep. Ongoing updates to community composition forecasts based on novel community data and better understanding of the associated uncertainty should improve future decision‐making for both resource management and conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Paper dust has previously been linked to adverse health effects. However, a comprehensive dataset of paper dust exposures does not appear to have been published previously. Our study was intended to address this need by describing a large dataset of measurements made in Swedish soft tissue paper mills. Methods We compiled personal and area total dust exposure measurements collected from a range of operations by our research staff at four soft tissue paper mills in Sweden. We also compiled measurements made by the occupational health staff at each mill and the Swedish Work Environment Authority. We analyzed these measurements to describe patterns and trends in exposures and used mixed-effects regression models to identify measurement characteristics that predicted exposure levels. Results We compiled 1578 measurements from 1971 to 2009, of which 1026 (65%) were personal samples. Statistically significant differences were found between measurements made by research, mill, and Swedish Work Environment Authority staff, as well as between personal and area measurements. The measurement data suggest that, beginning in the 1980s, exposures declined at three of the four mills, but that overexposures were still common at the end of the period. Papermaking and converting operations had the highest observed dust exposures. One mill had significantly lower exposures than the others. Type of measurement (personal versus area) and source of measurement (research staff, company, or regulatory agency) were not significant predictors of measured total dust exposure after controlling for mill, operation, and time. Conclusions Our analysis of measured paper dust exposures may be useful for historical and contemporary exposure assessment in our own and other epidemiological studies. We have identified specific characteristics (i.e. papermaking operations and mill) and time trends that are important data features to consider, and documented continuing overexposure situations. Our results highlight the ongoing need for application of exposure controls to reduce paper dust exposures in the soft tissue paper industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) have developed rapidly in recent years, because of their advantages, such as small sample volume, rapid detection rates, low cost, and portability. Due to these characteristics, they can be used for in vitro diagnostics in the laboratory, or in the field, for a variety of applications, including food evaluation, disease screening, environmental monitoring, and drug testing. This review will present various detection methods employed by μPADs and their respective applications for the detection of target analytes. These include colorimetry, electrochemistry, chemiluminescence (CL), electrochemiluminescence (ECL), and fluorescence-based methodologies. At the same time, the choice of labeling material and the design of microfluidic channels are also important for detection results. The construction of novel nanocomponents and different smart structures of paper-based devices have improved the performance of μPADs and we will also highlight some of these in this manuscript. Additionally, some key challenges and future prospects for the use of μPADs are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-cost paper-based analytical devices are the latest generation of portable lab-on-chip designs that offers an innovative platform for the on/off-site analysis (biosensing) of target analytes, especially in rural and remote areas. Recently, microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) have attained significant recognition owing to their exciting fundamental features such as: ease of fabrication, rapid operation, and precise interpretations. The incorporation of enzymes with paper-based analytical devices significantly improves analytical performance while exhibiting excellent chemical and storage stability. In addition to that, these devices are highly compact, portable, easy-to-use, and do not require any additional sophisticated equipment for the detection and quantification of target analytes. This review provides a holistic insight into design, fabrication, and enzyme immobilization strategies for the development of enzyme-μPADs, which enables them to be widely implemented for in-field analysis. It also highlights the recent application of enzyme-μPADs in the area of: biomedical, food safety, and environmental monitoring while exploring the mechanisms of detection involved. Further, in order to improve the accuracy of analysis, researchers have designed a smartphone-based scanning tool for multi-variant point-of-care devices, which is summarized in the latter part of the review. Finally, the future perspectives and outlook of major challenges associated with enzyme-μPADs are discussed with their possible solutions. The development of enzyme integrated μPADs will open a new avenue as an exceptional analytical tool to explore various applications. Enzyme embedded paper-based analytical devices are a revolution in the field of biosensing. The design, fabrication, and enzyme immobilization on μPADs have been comprehensively discussed. The application of enzyme-μPADs food safety, environmental monitoring, and clinical diagnostic have been reviewed. Smartphones can be used as an on-site, user-friendly, and compact next-gen scanning tool for biosensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are the main pollutants present in aquatic environments and their presence in human organisms can lead to many different diseases. While many methods exist for analysis, colorimetric and electrochemistry are particularly attractive for on-site analysis and their integration on a single platform can improve multiplexed metals analysis. This report describes for the first time a "plug-and-play" (PnP) assembly for coupling a microfluidic paper-based device (μPAD) and a screen-printed electrochemical paper-based device (ePAD) using a vertical and reversible foldable mechanism for multiplexed detection of Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb in river water samples. The integration strategy was based on a reversible assembly, allowing the insertion of a pretreatment zone to minimize potential chemical interfering agents and providing a better control of the aspirated sample volume as well as to a lower sample evaporation rate. In comparison with lateral flow and electrochemical assays performed using independent devices, the integrated prototype proved that the reversible coupling mechanism does not interfere on the analytical performance (95% confidence interval). The limit of detection (LOD) values calculated for metals determined varied from 0.1 to 0.3 mg L−1 (colorimetric) and from 0.9 to 10.5 μg L−1 (electrochemical). When compared to other integrated devices based on horizontal designs, the use of a foldable coupling mechanism offered linear response in a lower concentration range and better LOD values for Fe, Ni and Cu. The proposed method successfully measured heavy metals in river water samples with concentrations ranging from 16 to 786 μg L−1, with recovery studies ranging from 76 to 121%. The new method also showed good correlation with conventional atomic absorption spectroscopic methods (95% significance level). Thus, the integration of μPADs and ePADs by a vertical folding mechanism was efficient for multiplexed heavy metal analysis and could be exploited for environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based ion-selective optodes (ISOs) allow for low-cost ion measurements using widely accessible optical detectors such as smartphones, representing an attractive analytical platform for medical testing and environmental monitoring. Previously reported paper-based ISOs rely on plasticized PVC membranes or PVC/plasticizer-free adsorption layers containing hydrophobic sensing chemicals. In this paper, we studied a new format of paper-based ISOs, in which a plasticizer phase containing sensing chemicals is deposited onto cellulose paper without using a hydrophobic polymer like PVC. Compared to ISOs without plasticizers and polymers, the plasticizer-based ISOs show much higher pH sensitivity when using chromoionophore I and tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate as the sensing chemicals. When the sensing layer further contains a solid ionophore with high molecular rigidity, the plasticizer-based ISOs for cations also exhibit enhanced sensitivity than the plasticizer-free ISOs. However, when the ionophore is a liquid at room temperature or has a long alkyl chain, the plasticizer-based and plasticizer-free ISOs have comparable responses because the ionophore behaves as a pseudo-plasticizer. Compared to ISOs with both plasticizers and polymers, the elimination of hydrophobic polymers like PVC makes inkjet printing more efficient and preserves the capillary action of the porous paper. By using the newly launched Samba cartridge with smaller nozzles, the plasticizer-based and polymer-free optodes for sodium, potassium, and calcium ions are prepared by inkjet printing for the first time. In an example application, the inkjet-printed plasticizer-based and polymer-free ISOs are used for colorimetric measurements of urine calcium. • Plasticizer-based and polymer-free ion-selective optodes are fabricated on cellulose paper. • The use of plasticizers enhances the optode performance compared to plasticizer-free optodes. • Inkjet printing of the plasticizer-based optode ink is realized using the newly launched Samba cartridge. • The inkjet-printed optodes are used for colorimetric calcium measurements in urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field paper-based heavy metal strip was designed and implemented for simultaneous detection of the heavy metals Zn, Cr, Cu, Pb and Mn in wastewater samples. The colorimetric paper strip was fabricated by drop-casting of chromogenic reagents onto detection zones. When the fabricated paper strip was exposed to Zn, Cr, Cu, Pb and Mn, multiple colors appeared that were then recorded with a smartphone followed by processing in the Color Picker application. After optimizing the analytical parameters, such as the chromogenic concentration, pH and reaction time, the paper strip achieved detection limits of 0.63, 0.07, 0.17, 0.03 and 0.11 mg/L for Zn, Cr, Cu, Pb and Mn, respectively. Five heavy metals analyses were able to be performed within 1 min on one paper strip. This paper strip is accurate with recoveries from 87 to 107%. The results of the proposed paper strip correlated well with those determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry of wastewater samples. The use of a single paper strip integrated with a smartphone for the detection of five heavy metals in wastewater represents an all-in-one device with on-site detection, leading to cost-effective and rapid assays that show a great application potential for on-site environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Bisphenol A (BPA) is the most used colour developer in thermal paper for cashiers receipts, labels, and tickets. BPA can migrate onto the skin and be absorbed when handling these papers. BPA is a known endocrine disruptor and is therefore being replaced in thermal paper by some alternatives such as Bisphenol S (BPS), D-8, and Pergafast 201® (PF201). To our knowledge, no studies have characterized skin permeation of these BPA alternatives. Methods We measured/characterized skin absorption for BPA, BPS, D-8, and PF201 through ex vivo human skin using flow-through diffusion cells according to OECD guideline 428. Skin samples were 7–12 per test substance from three different skin donors. Skin metabolism was studied for BPA. Dermal absorption was expressed as the amount of the BPA alternatives in the receptor fluid over applied dose in percent (%). Results The absorbed dose after 24 h of exposure was 25% for BPA, 17% for D-8, 0.4% for BPS, and D-8 >> BPS > PF201. These results are in agreement with their log K ow and molecular weights. We provided here the necessary data to estimate the extent of skin absorption of BPA analogues, which is a necessary step in risk assessment, and ultimately evaluate public health risks posed by D-8, BPS, and PF201. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Point-of-care testing (POCT) technology is urgently required owing to the prevalence of the Internet of Things and portable electronics. In light of the attractive properties of low background and high sensitivity caused by the complete separation of excitation source and detection signal, the paper-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors, featured with fast in analysis, disposable and environmental-friendly have become one of the most promising strategies in POCT. Therefore, in this review, the latest advances and principal issues in the design and fabrication of portable paper-based PEC sensors for POCT are systematically discussed. Primarily, the flexible electronic devices that can be constructed by paper and the reasons why they can be used in PEC sensors are expounded. Afterwards, the photosensitive materials involved in paper-based PEC sensor and the signal amplification strategies are emphatically introduced. Subsequently, the application of paper-based PEC sensors in medical diagnosis, environmental monitoring and food safety are further discussed. Finally, the main opportunities and challenges of paper-based PEC sensing platforms for POCT are briefly summarized. It provides a distinct perspective for researchers to construct paper-based PEC sensors with portable and cost-effective, hoping to enlighten the fast development of POCT soon after, as well as benefit human society. • The merits of functionalized paper for PEC sensor are introduced. • Photosensitive material and signal amplification strategy of paper-based PEC sensor are discussed. • The application of paper-based PEC sensor in the field of POCT is highlighted. • The limitations and challenges of paper-based PEC sensor are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, great efforts are made in developing new technology for rapid detection of specific DNA sequences, for environmental monitoring, forensic analysis and rapid biomedical diagnosis applications. Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices are suitable platforms for the development of point of care devices, due to their simple fabrication protocols, ease of use and low cost. Herein, a methodology for in situ detection of single strand DNA by using a colorimetric assay based on the formation of a DNAzyme within a paper substrate was developed. A DNAzyme that could only be formed in the presence of a specific sequence of the Y human amelogenin gene was designed. The performance of the DNAzyme was followed colorimetrically first in solution and then in paper substrates. The reaction was found to be specific to the Y fragment selected as analyte. The DNAzyme reaction on paper enabled the unequivocal colorimetric identification of the Y single strand DNA fragment both qualitatively, with the naked eye (143 ng), and quantitatively by image analysis (45.7 ng). As a proof of concept, a microfluidic paper-based device, pre-loaded with all DNAzyme reagents, was characterized and implemented for the simultaneous detection of X and Y single strand DNA fragments. Image 1 • Optimized methodology for in situ DNA detection in a paper device format. • Detection based on a DNAzyme using Y human amelogenin fragment. • Presents a non-enzymatic, colorimetric and rapid way to detect DNA sequences. • Detection: quantitatively by calculating the grey intensity values. • Detection: qualitatively by the presence of a green color "coffee ring". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land cover dynamics is a challenging and vigorous process that associates natural and human systems that have undeviating effects on atmosphere, water and soil which lead to many environmental problems worldwide. Urbanization is one of a major land cover change that is highly correlated with many environmental problems that need emphasis. This paper aimed to review and present level and effect of land use land cover changes, urbanization, factors affecting land cover change and application of geographic information system & remote sensing in monitoring land cover changes. Over the past 300 years, about 1.2 million kilometer square of forests and 5.6 million kilometer square of pasture and rangeland were replaced by other uses worldwide, while cultivated land increased by 12 million km2. Inm1950, monlym30 percent of themworldmpopulationmlivedminmurban settings, themfraction raised tom55%mbym2018. This led to about roughly 60% of the ecosystem services are being destroyed or used in unsustainable ways worldwide. Population expansion, change of technology, high land value, corruption, lack of awareness, migration of people and political pressure are among major driving force of land cover changes. Geo-informatics technology specially GIS and Remote Sensing is found to be an excellent tool for study of land cover change that enables observation across large area of earth's surface with low cost, better efficient and high accuracy. Therefore monitoring, analyzing and evaluation of land cover dynamics with the help of geo-informatics is decisive for improved management & characterizing land cover alteration processes, and determining its environmental consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogens cause various infectious diseases and high morbidity and mortality which is a global public health threat. The highly sensitive and specific detection is of significant importance for the effective treatment and intervention to minimise the impact. However, conventional detection methods including culture and molecular method gravely depend on expensive equipment and well-trained skilled personnel, limiting in the laboratory. It remains challenging to adapt in resource-limiting areas, e.g., low and middle-income countries (LMICs). To this end, low-cost, rapid, and sensitive detection tools with the capability of field testing e.g., a portable device for identification and quantification of pathogens, has attracted increasing attentions. Recently, paper-based microfluidic analytical devices (μPADs) have shown a promising tool for rapid and on-site diagnosis, providing a cost-effective and sensitive analytical approach for pathogens detection. The fast turn-round data collection may also contribute to better understanding of the risks and insights on mitigation method. In this paper, critical developments of μPADs for in-field detection of pathogens both for clinical diagnostics and environmental surveillance are reviewed. The future development, and challenges of μPADs for rapid and onsite detection of pathogens are discussed, including using the cross-disciplinary development with, emerging techniques such as deep learning and Internet of Things (IoT). [Display omitted] • The state-of-the-art on μPAD is critically reviewed. • μPAD enables onsite detections of biochemical markers from molecules to organisms. • Insights is provided highlighting on multidisciplinary aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissolved sulfide tends to species transformation and loss upon leaving the matrix, thus the development of a practical on-site determination of sulfide is crucial for environmental monitoring and human health. In this work, a novel paper-based ratiometric fluorescence sensor was developed for the field analysis of sulfide, which system was constructed by the inner filter effect (IFE) of CdS quantum dots (QDs) toward carbon dots (C-dots). Instead of an aqueous phase system, the conversion of sulfide to its hydride would induce the in-situ formation of CdS QDs on the paper, which acted as an energy acceptor to quench the emission of C-dots, leading to a variation of ratiometric fluorescence from blue to yellow with the increasing concentration of sulfide. Moreover, we proposed a smartphone-based fluorescence capture device integrated with a programmed Python program, accomplishing both color recognition and accurate detection of sulfide. Under the optimal condition, this ratiometric fluorescence sensor allowed for the on-site analysis of sulfide with a limit of detection of 0.05 μM. The accuracy of the sensor was validated via the successful field analysis of environmental water samples with satisfactory recoveries. Compared to other fluorescence methods used for sulfide analysis, this developed system retains the advantages of label-free, low-cost, ease of operation, and miniaturization, showing great potential for the measurement of sulfide on-site, as well as environmental monitoring. [Display omitted] • A paper-based fluorescence sensor was developed for the field analysis of sulfide. • Sulfide induced the IFE between C-dots and CdS QDs and caused fluorescence change. • The portable device for sulfide analysis is low-cost and easy to operate. • The developed system shows great potential for the measurement of sulfide on-site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simultaneous detection of free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde in wastewater samples was performed. In this report, we designed and fabricated functionalized paper test strips featuring detection zones that use 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) for the immobilization of chromogenic substrates to detect free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde. After multiple chromogenic reactions, red, blue and purple colors were obtained on the detection zones and analyzed using a smartphone. Under optimum conditions, the paper test strips showed 1.7, 1.8 and 1.7 orders of magnitude for free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde, respectively. This sensitivity is caused by the formation of homogeneous complexes on detection zones resulting from the chromogenic reagents immobilized on the detection zone via APTES. Through this strategy, free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde analysis was achieved within 5 min with detection limits of 0.08, 0.14 and 0.13 mg L−1, respectively. The developed paper test strip was able to selective detection of free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde even in the presence of common interfering agents therefore, the test strip was highly selective. In a further demonstration, the developed functionalized paper test strip was successfully used for simultaneous detection of free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde in wastewater in the field and exhibited with high precision and accuracy in detecting free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde in wastewater samples. Compared to other methods, this assay was advantageous in terms of its low detection limit, time savings, good stability and highly portable format, which facilitates rapid on-site environmental monitoring with a smartphone. Image 1 • A functionalized paper strip test enables two-fold improvement of detection limit. • Simultaneous detection of free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde was achieved within 5 min with low detection limits. • A platform integrating functionalized paper strip test with a smartphone was successfully applied for ready-to-use for detection of free chlorine, hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde in wastewater samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, an inkjet printed paper electrode (PPE) decorated with graphene (Gr)-silver (Ag) nanocomposite was exploited as an electrochemical sensing probe for analysis of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in environmental water samples. In this work, 4% Gr-Ag nanocomposite ink (NI) was prepared in ethanol, ethylene glycol, and glycerol in the ratio of 50:45:5, which possess surface tension and viscosity of 36 mN m−1 and 11 mPa s, respectively. The office inkjet printer was employed to print formulated Gr-Ag NI on digital photo paper, followed by sintered at 200 °C for 30 min to make effective conducting tracks for the sensing of 4-NP. Gr-Ag NI-based PPE was used as a working electrode in cyclic voltammetry. The working principle of detection is based on the electrocatalytic reduction process of 4-NP on the electrode surface. A good linearity range of 3.125–100 μM was observed, achieving a detection limit of 2.7 μM to measure 4-NP. Thus, the developed PPE holds considerable potential and offers an economical, biodegradable, and user-friendly sensor for future applications in the monitoring of 4-NP in environmental water samples. [Display omitted] • Printed paper electrode (PPE) with graphene (Gr)-silver (Ag) was used as electrochemical sensing for 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). • Inkjet printer was employed to print formulated Gr-Ag NI on photo paper and sintered at 200 °C for 30 min to make electrode. • Gr-Ag/PPE was used as a working electrode in cyclic voltammetry for 4-NP determination. • Gr-Ag/PPE provides a low cost, decomposable, and user-friendly sensor for monitoring of 4-NP in environmental water sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) represent a modest and feasible alternative for conventional analytical methods. However, the inadequate sensitivity of these devices limits the possible applications of μPADs. In this scenario, inducing ion concentration polarization (ICP) on μPADs has shown promise to overcome this limitation by preconcentrating the analytes of interest. Here, we report a μPAD implementing ICP using an off-shelf Nafion® membrane as the perm selective membrane. Two types of devices with a geometrical configuration of a straight channel converging at the middle connecting to circular reservoirs at the end of channels were fabricated. The devices are comprised of a single input channel and an absorption channel. The Nafion membrane is attached to the absorption channel of the device, which is encased by heating with paraffin films at both sides to lower the electro-osmotic flow generated by an applied DC electric field that is needed for ICP. The field induced ICP enables obtaining a maximum concentration factor of more than 2000 folds for fluorescein sodium salt solution on the μPAD. Also, since evaporation of the sample solution was reported to be of great influence on the concentration factor, we analyze the effect of sample solution evaporation on sample preconcentration. Furthermore, our reported fabrication method for μPAD can lower the fabrication cost down to 0.3 USD. This device shows the potential to be developed for serving as a diagnostic and environmental monitoring platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, paper-based microfluidic chips have emerged as a promising microfluidic platform due to their simplicity, low cost, portability, and ease of fabrication. They have been applied in various fields such as biological analysis, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics. However, the current paper-based chips made of nitrocellulose membrane still can be improved in liquid flow rate control. To address these issues, a novel paper-based microfluidic chip is designed to control liquid in a wide time range, and the liquid delay and acceleration control are realized by laser cutting and knife crafting respectively. Microfluidic chip's hydrophobic boundaries can be manufactured in a one-step process using laser cutting, taking less than 10 seconds. Additionally, the structural parameters of microgrooves, which have a significant impact on flow rate, can be precisely controlled using a scalpel-based cutting platform. This enables efficient and consistent microgroove processing. Furthermore, experimental optimization of laser cutting and knife crafting parameters is performed, along with an exploration of factors influencing the delay and acceleration effects in the chip structures. The effectiveness of these processing methods is validated through practical applications. In summary, this study realizes a wide time range fluid control in paper-based microfluidic chips, which can achieve delay and acceleration in the range of −55.6% to +828.3%, thus expanding the application range of paper-based microfluidic chips. • A novel paper-based microfluidic chip has been made by simple, cheap, and efficient manufacturing processes. • A stable and efficient method has been developed to fabricate acceleration microgrooves on nitrocellulose membranes. • This chip is able to achieve fluid control with wide time range. • It has potential applications in conducting complex Point-of-care Tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fluorescence sensing system based on supramolecular assembly of a perylene probe (PDI-BTMA) has been constructed to rapidly and accurately quantify TNP via smartphone. [Display omitted] • Smartphone-assisted fluorescence sensor based PDI-BTMA probe was constructed for TNP. • Visual sensing of TNP was accomplished rapidly in aqueous media with LOD of 9 nM. • Optical responses of PDI-BTMA were caused by the formation of supramolecular complex. • The sensor can detect TNP quantitatively with sensitivity in environmental samples. 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) is an environmentally deleterious substance with high toxicity and explosibility. It is of great significance for environmental protection and public health to establish a rapidly on-site monitoring method for perilous TNP. Current methods for detecting TNP mainly rely on traditional laboratory analysis lacking rapid detection through intelligent modes. Herein, we construct a smartphone recognition based fluorescence sensing system via the supramolecular assembly of a perylene probe to quantify TNP. The sensing platform consists of a fluorescent probe based on quaternary ammonium functionalized perylene (PDI-BTMA), as the TNP-response recognition element, and smartphones as optical signals receptors bringing simpleness, celerity, and portability for TNP monitoring. The sensor reveals dual output signals of color and fluorescence in response to TNP. The results show that the optical responses of PDI-BTMA can be attributed to the formation of the supramolecular complex (PDI-BTMA/TNP) via non-covalent interactions including static electricity, hydrophobic interaction, charge transfer, and π-π stacking. It shows a wide linear range for TNP of 200–1200 nM with a detection limit of 9 nM. In addition, we successfully made portable PDI-BTMA fluorescence paper. The RGB value of fluorescence color was also collected by using the smartphone-assisted sensing platform, and the G/B channel values show a linear relationship with TNP concentration in 0.1–50 μM, with the lowest detection concentration of 48.4 nM. Additionally, it could be successfully utilized for quantitative TNP monitoring in environmental water and soil samples, which achieved a greater recovery rate in the range of 99–110%. This research integrating the PDI-BTMA probe with a smartphone firstly presents a new strategy for real-time and on-site monitoring of TNP in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Paper-based immunosensors are regarded as attractive analytical tools for performing point-of-care and in-field assays in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring and food safety control. In this review, we provide a general overview of the types and applied detection techniques of paper-based immunosensors published in recent years and analyse the current trends in these two aspects. The first section introduces the background of paper-based immunosensors and critically discusses the necessity and distinct features of existing paper-based immunosensors. The second section summarizes the types of current paper-based immunosensors, including paper-based lateral-flow assays (LFAs), microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) and some other device types. In the third section, we describe various detection techniques currently applied in paper-based immunosensors, covering optical, electrochemical and some multiple detection techniques. Finally, current trends and future perspectives are also discussed. We hope this review will be a helpful reference for readers of various fields. Highlights • The application value of paper-based immunosensors is emphasized. • Current paper-based immunosensors are outlined according to two aspects. • Representative examples of paper-based immunosensors are elaborated. • The current trends and prospect of paper-based immunosensors are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pressure sensor, as one of the most common components in the sensing systems, has attracted plenty of attention in recent years with urgent needs. Herein, a highly sensitive flexible pressure sensor based on conducting polymer (CP)-coated paper is developed via an ultra-simple approach of synthesis and fabrication. This paper-based sensor displays an ultra-low detection limit as low as 0.3 Pa level, and outstanding sensitivity (∼2 kPa −1 , P  ≤ 75 Pa), which can rank the top among that of the reported pressure sensors. The advantages based on paper framework such as low cost, portability, and easy disposability further enhance its feasibility. Meanwhile, combining its rapid and precise response at room temperature and the recognized stability of PPy in the ambient environment, the sensor would ensure direct and continuous environment monitoring with low energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A standard desktop printer with multiple ink cartridges can accurately deposit a broad variety of biomaterials on microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) which have been extensively applied to environmental monitoring and screening of food and beverage contamination. Finding ways to realize sample quantitative control by tuning the CMYK value, however, remains challenging. Herein, we studied the influence of the CMYK value on the ink volume jetted by ink cartridges. The regularity research on a single-color and two-colors was performed in two print mode-grayscale printing and color printing. The results demonstrated that the number of ink dots increased with the increase of the gray value and opacity value, which means that the amount of the bio-ink increases with the increase of the CMYK value. The 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine–horseradish peroxidase–hydrogen peroxide, glucose oxidase–horseradish peroxidase and bull serum albumin–citrate buffer–tetrabromophenol blue systems were chosen as examples to prove the print regularity. Samples and assay reagents can be quantitatively deposited on a substrate by adjusting the CMYK value with as many as four ink cartridges. The present approach has been successfully applied to assay the targets in real serum samples, showing the potential application of the most common office piezoelectric printer in μPADs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based electrochemical sensors (PESs) have been evidenced as analytical strategies for employing simple, low-cost, portable and disposable sensing platforms that can be used in many application areas. Recently, PESs have gained extensive attention because of their advantages of advanced sensitivity and selectivity during detection provided by electrochemistry, compared with microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) that still lack these advantages. Also, it can be expected that PESs can better meet current user demands, making them a stand-out analytical tool because of their capability for multiple analyte detection and their compatibility in a variety of application areas, like clinical diagnosis, environmental monitoring and food quality control. Herein, in this mini review, we present an overview of recent developments in PESs over the last decade, focusing on existing fabrication techniques and application areas, specifically in relation to clinical diagnostics, food quality control and environmental monitoring, where simple and portable analytical devices are greatly needed. A summary and future outlooks for PESs are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Definition of passive envelope indexes and caracterization of libraries in La Plata. • Environmental monitoring: achievement of preventive conservation indexes. • Correlation between passive envelope indexes and preventive conservation indexes. • Determination of the most influential passive envelope indexes for the achievement of preventive conservation indexes. Abstract The common approach for libraries to preserve their paper-based collections from irreversible deterioration is by controlling quantitative parameters, such as temperature and relative humidity. Variations of these parameters for preventive conservation can be expressed by the "performance index" (PI) and the "amplitude index" (AI). Building envelope is the first filter of the external climate, buffering the external weather fluctuations and maintaining the building's indoor climate stable. Its shape, window areas and envelope materials are the most influential parameters. As they capture the relationship of a few geometric and physical variables with the building's performance, the envelope characteristics can be expressed as certain passive envelope indexes. This paper studies the relationship of certain passive envelope indexes and the preventive conservation indexes for books for several libraries and archives located in La Plata, Argentina. The results show the impact of every passive envelope index upon the preventive conservation indexes. The compactness, heaviness, adjacency to spaces and adjacency to ground have a positive linear correlation meanwhile transparency and global transmittance are parameters with a negative correlation. In general, the most influential parameter is the relative area adjacent to other spaces, followed by global transmittance, transparency, heaviness, relative area adjacent to ground and compactness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemosensing, an interdisciplinary scientific domain, plays a pivotal role ranging from environmental monitoring to healthcare diagnostics and (inter)national security. Metal‐organic gels (MOGs) are recognized for their stability, selectivity, and responsiveness, making them valuable for chemosensing applications. Researchers have explored the development of MOGs based on different metal ions and ligands, allowing for tailored properties and sensitivities, and have even demonstrated their applications as portable sensors such as paper‐based test strips for practical use. Herein, several studies related to MOGs development and their applications in the chemosensing field via UV‐visible or luminance along with electrochemical approach are presented. These papers explored MOGs as versatile materials with their use in sensing bio or environmental analytes. This review provides a foundational understanding of key concepts, methodologies, and recent advancements in this field, fostering the scientific community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's world, a significant amount of global energy is used in buildings. Unfortunately, a lot of this energy is wasted, because electrical appliances are not used properly or efficiently. One way to reduce this waste is by detecting, learning, and predicting when people are present in buildings. To do this, buildings need to become "smart" and "cognitive" and use modern technologies to sense when and how people are occupying the buildings. By leveraging this information, buildings can make smart decisions based on recently developed methods. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in Internet of Things (IoT) technologies that have been designed and used for the monitoring of indoor environmental conditions within buildings. Using these technologies is crucial to gathering data about the indoor environment and determining the number and presence of occupants. Furthermore, this paper critically examines both the strengths and limitations of each technology in predicting occupant behavior. In addition, it explores different methods for processing these data and making future occupancy predictions. Moreover, we highlight some challenges, such as determining the optimal number and location of sensors and radars, and provide a detailed explanation and insights into these challenges. Furthermore, the paper explores possible future directions, including the security of occupants' data and the promotion of energy-efficient practices such as localizing occupants and monitoring their activities within a building. With respect to other survey works on similar topics, our work aims to both cover recent sensory approaches and review methods used in the literature for estimating occupancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms serve as a dynamic platform for diverse missions, including communication relays, search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring. The success of these operations crucially depends on the resilience of their electrical support systems, especially in terms of battery management. This paper examines the reliability of electrical support for UAV swarms engaged in missions that require prioritization into high and low categories. The paper proposes a dynamic resource allocation strategy that permits the flexible reassignment of drones across different-priority tasks, ensuring continuous operation while optimizing resource use. By leveraging the Markov chain theory, an analytical model for the evaluation of the resilience of the battery management system under different operational scenarios was developed. The paper quantitatively assesses the impact of different operational strategies and battery management approaches on the overall system resilience and mission efficacy. This approach aims to ensure uninterrupted service delivery for critical tasks while optimizing the overall utilization of available electrical resources. Through modeling and analytical evaluations, the paper quantifies the impact of various parameters and operating strategies on overall system resilience and mission availability, considering the utilization strategies of batteries and their reliability and maintenance metrics. The developed models and strategies can inform the development of robust battery management protocols, resource allocation algorithms, and mission planning frameworks, ultimately enhancing the operational availability and effectiveness of UAV swarms in critical special missions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airborne particulate matter (PM) is of great concern in the modern-day atmosphere owing to its association with a variety of health impacts, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Of the various size fractions of PM, it is the finer fractions that are most harmful to health, in particular ultrafine particles (PM0.1; UFPs), with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 100 nm. The smaller size fractions, of ≤2.5 µm (PM2.5; fine particles) and ≤0.1 µm (PM0.1; ultrafine particles), have been shown to have numerous linkages to negative health effects; however, their collection/sampling remains challenging. This review paper employed a comprehensive literature review methodology; 200 studies were evaluated based on the rigor of their methodologies, including the validity of experimental designs, data collection methods, and statistical analyses. Studies with robust methodologies were prioritised for inclusion. This review paper critically assesses the health risks associated with fine and ultrafine particles, highlighting vehicular emissions as the most significant source of particulate-related health effects. While coal combustion, diesel exhaust, household wood combustors' emissions, and Earth's crust dust also pose health risks, evidence suggests that exposure to particulates from vehicular emissions has the greatest impact on human health due to their widespread distribution and contribution to air pollution-related diseases. This article comprehensively examines current sampling technologies, specifically focusing on the collection and sampling of ultrafine particles (UFP) from ambient air to facilitate toxicological and physiochemical characterisation efforts. This article discusses diverse approaches to collect fine and ultrafine particulates, along with experimental endeavours to assess ultrafine particle concentrations across various microenvironments. Following meticulous evaluation of sampling techniques, high-volume air samplers such as the Chem Vol Model 2400 High Volume Cascade Impactor and low-volume samplers like the Personal Cascade Impactor Sampler (PCIS) emerge as effective methods. These techniques offer advantages in particle size fractionation, collection efficiency, and adaptability to different sampling environments, positioning them as valuable tools for precise characterisation of particulate matter in air quality research and environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of cost-effective sensing system for Hg2+ quantitation is highly demanded for environmental monitoring. In this work, we reported an on-site, rapid and portable smartphone-based Hg2+ sensing system integrating coumarin-modified paper as a probe and smartphone readout device as a processing platform. For fluorescent sensing of Hg2+, the modified paper was fabricated by chemically grafting a coumarin-based probe N-((7-hydroxy-coumarin-3-yl)carbamothioyl)acetamide (HCCA) onto paper, and its physicochemical properties and sensing performance were characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR, XPS, SEM, and fluorescence spectral analysis. The modified paper displayed high selectivity and sensitivity for Hg2+, accompanied with a distinct fluorescence color change. For portable detection of the fluorescent sensors, a smartphone readout device was designed, consisting of a removable 3D-printed hardware device and an application. Remarkably, the smartphone readout device in cooperation with the modified paper is highly selective and sensitive to Hg2+ with the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.46 ppb, which avoids the requirement of sophisticated equipment and complex operation. The cost-effective sensing system based on smartphone shows a great potential for monitoring of Hg2+ in environmental water. [Display omitted] • A coumarin-modified paper was fabricated by chemical grafting. • The modified paper showed good fluorescent sensing performance for Hg2+. • A smartphone readout device was designed containing hardware and software. • The smartphone-based sensing system could quantify Hg2+ reliably and portably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (microPADs) are an emerging platform for point-of-care assays with potential applications ranging from medical diagnostics to environmental monitoring. A standard approach for signal generation and amplification on microPADs is the use of enzymes and chromogenic substrates, which produce colored products and enable the qualitative and quantitative detection of analytes. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) is one of the most commonly used enzymes for this application. While a wide variety of chromogenic substrates and substrate solutions are available for HRP, these were all originally developed and optimized for other platforms and have not been systematically compared on microPADs. In this work, 33 chromogenic substrate solutions for HRP containing one of six different substrate molecules were evaluated in a standardized colorimetric assay and compared on the basis of limit of detection (LOD), lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ), upper limit of quantitation (ULOQ), sensitivity, dynamic range, stability, and cost. While the substrates tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and o-phenylenediamine (OPD) were found to achieve the best overall analytical performance, each substrate had characteristics that may make them appealing for specific applications. The results of this work will facilitate the selection of substrate molecules and the formulation of substrate solutions for future colorimetric paper-based assays involving HRP. • Six chromogenic substrates for HRP in 33 different formulations were evaluated on microPADs. • TMB and OPD provided the best overall LOD, LLOQ and sensitivity. • ABTS provided the best ULOQ and dynamic range. • Results will facilitate the selection of suitable substrates for future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stable isotope analysis of a novel combination of carbon and nitrogen pools traced inputs and processing of primary- treated (PE) and secondary-treated effluent (SE) from a paper and pulp mill (PPM) in a temperate Australian estuary. Distinct carbon stable isotope ratios of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) near the PPM outfall indicated large PE and reduced SE inputs of DOC. DOC was remineralized to dissolved inorganic carbon regardless of season, but rates were lower in winter. PE discharge in winter elevated DOC concentrations along much of the estuary. Distinct stable isotope ratios confirmed particulate organic matter (POM) input from PE and SE to the water column and into the sediment This was relatively localized, indicating rapid POM settlement regardless of season SE discharge increased nutrient inputs and enhanced algal productivity, particularly in summer when chlorophyll-a concentrations were elevated throughout the estuary. SE discharge reduced pCO2 from levels associated with PE discharge. However, the estuary remained heterotrophic as subsequent respiration or decomposition of algal material offset reductions in PPM organic matter input. The influence of the PPM was apparent throughout the estuary, demonstrating the ability of anthropogenic inputs, and changes to these, to affect ecosystem functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, paper-based point-of-care testing (POCT) has been widely used in medical diagnostics, food safety and environmental monitoring. However, a high-cost, time-consuming and equipment-dependent sample pretreatment technique is generally required for raw sample processing, which are impractical for low-resource and disease-endemic areas. Therefore, there is an escalating demand for a cost-effective, simple and portable pretreatment technique, to be coupled with the commonly used paper-based assay (e.g. lateral flow assay) in POCT. In this review, we focus on the importance of using paper as a platform for sample pretreatment. We firstly discuss the beneficial use of paper for sample pretreatment, including sample collection and storage, separation, extraction, and concentration. We highlight the working principle and fabrication of each sample pretreatment device, the existing challenges and the future perspectives for developing paper-based sample pretreatment technique. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Volatile organic compound (VOC) detection is critical for controlling industrial and commercial emissions, environmental monitoring, and public health. Simple, portable, rapid and low-cost VOC sensing platforms offer the benefits of on-site and real-time monitoring anytime and anywhere. The best and most practically useful approaches to monitoring would include equipment-free and power-free detection by the naked eye. In this work, we created a novel, paper-based cantilever sensor array that allows simple and rapid naked-eye VOC detection without the need for power, electronics or readout interface/equipment. This simple VOC detection method was achieved using (i) low-cost paper materials as a substrate and (ii) swellable thin polymers adhered to the paper. Upon exposure to VOCs, the polymer swelling adhered to the paper-based cantilever, inducing mechanical deflection that generated a distinctive composite pattern of the deflection angles for a specific VOC. The angle is directly measured by the naked eye on a 3-D protractor printed on a paper facing the cantilevers. The generated angle patterns are subjected to statistical algorithms (linear discriminant analysis (LDA)) to classify each VOC sample and selectively detect a VOC. We classified four VOC samples with 100% accuracy using LDA. Graphical abstractfx1Highlights· We created a novel, paper-based cantilever gas sensor array. · It allowed simple and rapid naked-eye VOC detection. · Upon exposure to VOCs, the mechanical deflection of the cantilevers was monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the development of a Quadcopter-Rover System specifically designed for environmental survey applications. The system combines the capabilities of a quadcopter and a rover to provide a comprehensive and versatile solution for data collection and analysis. The paper presents a detailed overview of the system's modelling, design, and manufacturing of the two main components: the quadcopter and the differential wheel robot (the rover). The quadcopter’s main task is to carry the rover to/from the ground destination and collect aerial data while the rover`s main task is ground exploration and data collection. The paper discusses the development of a robust and efficient control algorithm that enables autonomous and coordinated operation between the quadcopter and the rover. Experimental results demonstrate the system's effectiveness in conducting environmental surveys, showcasing its ability to accurately navigate challenging terrains, and collect valuable data for environmental analysis. The Quadcopter-Rover System offers significant potential in applications such as ecological monitoring, disaster management, and precision agriculture, where comprehensive and efficient data collection is crucial for informed decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional monitoring method of water resources environment mainly relies on manual sampling and laboratory analysis, which is limited in time and space and can not realize the comprehensive monitoring of water resources environment. With the continuous development of computer technology and network communication technology, real-time data monitoring method of water resources environment based on computer remote data acquisition and image analysis has gradually become a new solution. This paper aims to propose a real-time data monitoring method of water resources environment based on computer remote data acquisition and image analysis, in order to achieve accurate and efficient monitoring of water resources environment, timely acquisition and analysis of key data of water resources environment, and provide scientific basis for relevant decisions. In this paper, the key parameters of water quality, water quantity and water ecology are collected by using computer remote data acquisition and image analysis. Using computer image analysis technology, the collected image data are processed and analyzed, and the related characteristics and indicators of water resources environment are extracted. The results show that the real-time data monitoring method of water resources environment based on computer remote data acquisition and image analysis can monitor the data changes of water resources environment accurately and efficiently. Through the analysis and processing of the real-time data, the problems in the water resources environment can be found and warned in time, and the corresponding measures can be taken to regulate and manage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transformational advances in environmental sensing have been made possible by the convergence of Cloud Computing and the Internet of Things (IoT). The potential for these technologies is to work together and improve environmental monitoring data analytics. Integrating IoT in the cloud creates a robust environment for advanced analytics by overcoming previous hurdles in data granularity, real-time monitoring, and geographical coverage. These developments aren't without their own set of difficulties, however, including data security, interoperability, and ethical concerns. This paper explores integrating Cloud IoT with environmental sensing. The paper addresses these issues and emphasises the need to establish ethical data-gathering methods, implement standardised communication protocols, and address privacy concerns. The study concludes by examining the challenges, concerns, and potential of integrating Cloud IoT. The integration of Cloud Computing and IoT not only transforms environmental sensing but also provides a solid foundation for collaborative research, data-driven decision-making, and environmentally conscious management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we have developed the SEMAR (Smart Environmental Monitoring and Analytics in Real-Time) IoT application server platform for fast deployments of IoT application systems. It provides various integration capabilities for the collection, display, and analysis of sensor data on a single platform. Recently, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become very popular and widely used in various applications including IoT. To support this growth, the integration of AI into SEMAR is essential to enhance its capabilities after identifying the current trends of applicable AI technologies in IoT applications. In this paper, we first provide a comprehensive review of IoT applications using AI techniques in the literature. They cover predictive analytics, image classification, object detection, text spotting, auditory perception, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and collaborative AI. Next, we identify the characteristics of each technique by considering the key parameters, such as software requirements, input/output (I/O) data types, processing methods, and computations. Third, we design the integration of AI techniques into SEMAR based on the findings. Finally, we discuss use cases of SEMAR for IoT applications with AI techniques. The implementation of the proposed design in SEMAR and its use to IoT applications will be in future works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The historic house of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa, Al Ain (Abu Dhabi, UAE) belongs to the World Heritage Cultural Sites. The courtyard and two rooms include mudbrick archaeological remains that are preserved in showcases for public display. The building lies in a hot desert climate and needs air conditioning to be comfortable. This paper is concerned with indoor showcases and their compatibility with the indoor climate. Sometimes, misting for condensation is generated on the glass panes for the temperature and humidity contrast between the room climate and the showcases that are embedded in the floor. When misting occurs, the remains cannot be viewed. This paper investigates indoor glass misting, the exchanges of heat and moisture between archaeological remains, showcases and rooms, and the results after a year of environmental monitoring. An aim is to assess the potential risks for the preservation of the remains, recognizing the frequency and severity of the conditions for condensation. Another aim is to discuss mitigation methodologies to avoid glass misting, e.g., (i) reducing the room cooling; (ii) raising the glass pane temperature with electrical devices; (iii) increasing air exchanges between showcases and rooms; (iv) adopting a combination of these methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury (Hg) is a well know element due its toxicity to both environment and humans. Also, mercury has a high persistence in the environment, and therefore, it is essential to monitor its presence on environmental matrices, such as water, soils and sediments. Sediment cores can provide a useful tool when monitoring water bodies for the presence of mercury since, when coupled with geochronological techniques, it is possible to analyze the temporal variation of Hg during a certain period. Thus, the objective of this work was to perform a systematic review about papers that analyzed the presence of Hg in dated sediment cores in Brazil. The review was performed in the following databases: Scielo, PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus. We searched for papers published between 2011 and 2020. In total, we found 217 articles, that after the application of successive filtration criteria, were reduced to 13 articles. The majority of the papers showed a tendency of increase in the concentration of Hg. We also performed a risk assessment that indicates that some places have Hg concentrations above quality criteria established for sediments. Regarding the sources, all the papers that presented a tendency of increase in Hg concentrations considered this as consequence of anthropogenic activities, such as chlor-alkali industries and deforestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transmission teaching which centres around traditional lecturing discounts the variety of different learners and individual aptitudes. Physical Geography as a discipline has historically provided a range of teaching methods beyond lecturing which embrace field and laboratory activities, frequently adapting new research technologies to further student learning. While technological trends are increasing the demand for Geography graduates with GIS, modelling, or programming skills, Geography lecturers should remain open to using other technological advances as teaching tools. Using an example of low-cost environmental sensors, this paper demonstrates how technologically-focused exercises can effectively solidify a range of geographical skills through experiential learning. Using Kolb's Experiential Learning Model to identify the key learning processes, we compare low-cost environmental sensor training to the UK's current Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education's (QAA) Geography benchmarks. We also consider the practical applications of this technology as a learning tool for Physical Geography. In comparison with a student evaluation, this paper provides an initial basis to support additional qualitative investigations into the learning outcomes of independent, technology-based learning activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maritime emissions contribute significantly to global pollution, necessitating accurate and efficient monitoring methods. Traditional methods for tracking ship emissions often face limitations in real-time data accuracy, with wind measurement being a critical yet challenging aspect. This paper introduces an innovative mission planner module for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that leverages onboard wind sensing capabilities to enhance maritime emission monitoring. The module's primary objective is to assist operators in making informed decisions by providing real-time wind data overlays, thus optimizing flight paths and data collection efficiency. Our experimental setup involves the testing of the module in simulated maritime environments, demonstrating its efficacy in varying wind conditions. The real-time wind data overlays provided by the module enable UAV operators to adjust their flight paths dynamically, reducing unnecessary power expenditure and mitigating the risks associated with low-battery scenarios, especially in challenging maritime conditions. This paper presents the implementation of real-time wind data overlays on an open-source state-of-the-art mission planner as a C# plugin that is seamlessly integrated into the user interface. The factors that affect performance, in terms of communication overheads and real-time operation, are identified and discussed. The operation of the module is evaluated in terms of functional integration and real-time visual representation of wind measurements, and the enhanced situational awareness that it can offer to mission controllers is demonstrated. Beyond presenting a novel application of UAV technology in environmental monitoring, we also provide an extensive discussion of how this work will be extended in the context of complete aerial environmental inspection missions and the future directions in research within the field that can potentially lead to the modernization of maritime emission monitoring practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the monumental work conducted by Whitesides et al. in 2007, research and development of paper-based microfluidics has been widely carried out, with its applications ranging from chemical and biological detection and analysis, to environmental monitoring and food-safety inspection. Paper-based microfluidics possesses several competitive advantages over other substrate materials, such as being simple, inexpensive, power-free for fluid transport, lightweight, biodegradable, biocompatible, good for colorimetric tests, flammable for easy disposal of used paper-based diagnostic devices by incineration, and being chemically modifiable. Myriad methods have been demonstrated to fabricate paper-based microfluidics, such as solid wax printing, cutting, photolithography, microembossing, etc. In this study, fabrication of paper-based microfluidics was demonstrated by spray on the printed paper. Different from the normally used filter papers, printing paper, which is much more accessible and cheaper, was utilized as the substrate material. The toner was intended to serve as the mask and the patterned hydrophobic barrier was formed after spray and heating. The processing parameters such as toner coverage on the printing paper, properties of the hydrophobic spray, surface properties of the paper, and curing temperature and time were systematically investigated. It was found that, after repetitive printing four times, the toner was able to prevent the hydrophobic spray (the mixture of PDMS and ethyl acetate) from wicking through the printing paper. The overall processing time for fabrication of paper-based microfluidic chips was less than 10 min and the technique is potentially scalable. Glucose detection was conducted using the microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (µPADs) as fabricated and a linear relationship was obtained between 1 and 10 mM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleic acid testing (NAT) has been widely used for disease diagnosis, food safety control and environmental monitoring. At present, NAT mainly involves nucleic acid extraction, amplification and detection steps that heavily rely on large equipment and skilled workers, making the test expensive, time-consuming, and thus less suitable for point-of-care (POC) applications. With advances in paper-based microfluidic technologies, various integrated paper-based devices have recently been developed for NAT, which however require off-chip reagent storage, complex operation steps and equipment-dependent nucleic acid amplification, restricting their use for POC testing. To overcome these challenges, we demonstrate a fully disposable and integrated paper-based sample-in-answer-out device for NAT by integrating nucleic acid extraction, helicase-dependent isothermal amplification and lateral flow assay detection into one paper device. This simple device allows on-chip dried reagent storage and equipment-free nucleic acid amplification with simple operation steps, which could be performed by untrained users in remote settings. The proposed device consists of a sponge-based reservoir and a paper-based valve for nucleic acid extraction, an integrated battery, a PTC ultrathin heater, temperature control switch and on-chip dried enzyme mix storage for isothermal amplification, and a lateral flow test strip for naked-eye detection. It can sensitively detect Salmonella typhimurium, as a model target, with a detection limit of as low as 102 CFU ml−1 in wastewater and egg, and 103 CFU ml−1 in milk and juice in about an hour. This fully disposable and integrated paper-based device has great potential for future POC applications in resource-limited settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper microfluidics is a rapidly growing subfield of microfluidics in which paper-like porous materials are used to create analytical devices. There is a need for higher performance field-use tests for many application domains including human disease diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and veterinary medicine. A key factor in creating high performance paper-based devices is the ability to manipulate fluid flow within the devices. This critical review is focused on the progress that has been made in (i) the development of fluid flow control tools and (ii) the integration of those tools into paper microfluidic devices. Further, we strive to be comprehensive in our presentation and provide historical context through discussion and performance comparisons, when possible, of both relevant earlier work and recent work. Finally, we discuss the major areas of focus for fluid flow methods development to advance the potential of paper microfluidics for high-performance field applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]