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

This article discusses a study on the use of a digital format for testing pareidolias, which are visual perceptual deficits where ambiguous shapes take on meaningful appearances. The study compared the results of paper-based and digital testing approaches on healthy controls and patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Dementia with Lewy body disease, and Parkinson's disease. The findings suggest that the illusionary phenomenon of pareidolia is consistent across both paper and digital modalities of testing, and that perceptual constancy is maintained across patient groups. The study also found that pareidolic misperceptions can be stabilized on a digital format, demonstrating a practical way of testing pareidolias on smartphones without compromising the functionality of the test. [Extracted from the article]

A new study from North Carolina State University explores the impact of global megatrends on the pulp and paper industry (P&PI), with a specific focus on hygiene tissue products. The study utilizes a multi-criteria framework to assess the effects of digitalization, changes in social behavior, and sustainability on the industry. The findings highlight the need for alternative raw materials to prevent supply chain disruptions and emphasize the importance of substantiating sustainability claims with hard data to avoid consumer skepticism. The study aims to provide decision support for strategic planning and enhance sustainability efforts within the P&PI industry. [Extracted from the article]

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

Researchers at the National University Tucuman in Argentina have developed a simple and promising paper-based electrochemical platform for the serological detection of American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL). The platform, made from Whatman N1 paper, uses specific crude extracts antigens for ATL immuno-determination. The researchers tested the platform using serum samples from previously diagnosed patients and found that it was able to distinguish between ATL and non-ATL cases. This technology could provide a low-cost, portable, and environmentally friendly method for diagnosing and managing leishmaniasis. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from COMSATS University in Lahore, Pakistan have developed a cellulose paper-based aptasensing protocol for the detection of the cancer biomarker mucin 1 (MUC1). The paper surface was modified using polydopamine modified carbon nanotubes (PDA@CNTS) to create a strong adhesion and binding interface. The researchers used dynamic laser speckle (DLS) analysis to analyze the speckle patterns generated from the cellulose-based paper surface, providing sensitive and accurate analysis of the target biomarker. The paper-based aptasensor demonstrated sensitive and selective detection of MUC1, making it a promising tool for low-cost and portable biological applications. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the Military University of Technology in Warsaw, Poland, explored the use of graphene paper as a carrier for medicinal substances. The researchers incorporated the antibiotics ciprofloxacin, cefazolin, and methicillin into the graphene paper and tested its impact on bacterial strains. The study found that graphene paper with ciprofloxacin had a bactericidal effect on Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains, while methicillin and cefazolin acted mainly locally. The research suggests that graphene paper can be used as a carrier for selected medicinal substances. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Northeast Forestry University in Harbin, China have developed antibacterial food-preservative paper incorporating ceramic pigments. The paper was created by coating silver onto red ceramic powder using the electroless plating method. The ceramic pigments have a porous crystalline structure, and the silver particles were successfully loaded onto the surface and into the pores of the ceramic. The paper was tested using spinach as an example, and it was found that while the ceramic preservative paper did not have antibacterial properties, it reduced weight loss from the spinach and increased retention of vitamin C and chlorophyll. The antibacterial preservative papers inhibited the growth of bacteria by over 99% and preserved the spinach more effectively. The researchers concluded that the antibacterial food-preservative paper has great potential in food packaging applications. [Extracted from the article]

A report from investigators at Peking Union Medical College in Beijing, China compares two urine tests, the Congo-red dot paper test (CRD) and dipstick urinalysis, for screening preeclampsia in pregnant women. The study found that the agreement between the two tests was modest, with the CRD test having higher specificity but lower sensitivity compared to urinalysis. The researchers concluded that urinalysis is a better diagnostic test for preeclampsia, but CRD could aid in the diagnosis and combining the two tests may improve performance. Further research is needed for potential clinical practice. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the University of Turku discusses the importance of international collaboration among early-stage researchers (ESRs) in nursing science. The paper aims to identify the optimal forms of collaboration and the challenges faced by individual researchers and organizations in strengthening international collaboration during the ESR phase. The research emphasizes the need for expanded and long-term collaboration to develop nursing science, improve nursing care, patient outcomes, and benefit society. The report is based on previous literature and the authors' experiences in collaboration between Estonia and Finland. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract discusses a cryopreservation strategy for storing myoblasts, which are cells involved in skeletal muscle health, in paper-based scaffolds. The goal of this research is to make it easier for the broader biology community to use three-dimensional tissue-engineered models for studying skeletal muscle pathophysiology and developing therapeutic agents. The researchers developed a protocol using commercially available reagents that allows myoblasts to be cryopreserved in a format that can be easily transferred to users without expertise in skeletal muscle cell culture. The study validates that the cryopreserved myoblasts maintain cell viability, differentiation, and function, and demonstrates successful shipping and use of the tissues by collaborators. The researchers also applied their method to study muscle endogenous repair. This research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent research study conducted by the University of Sheffield explores the social and economic dimensions of food sustainability in relation to the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNRs). The study emphasizes the need to consider these dimensions alongside environmental factors when developing policies that aim to address both health and sustainability goals. The researchers highlight the importance of understanding the trade-offs and compromises that may arise when making policy decisions in this field. They suggest that framing food as an issue and considering different perspectives can help navigate these challenges. The full research paper can be accessed for free through the provided link. [Extracted from the article]

A white paper from Loyola University Medical Center discusses the use of regional anesthesia in transplantation surgery. The paper highlights the lack of standardized practices in this area and the need for guidelines. The research conducted a literature review on various transplantation surgeries and their associated regional anesthetic techniques. The findings support the use of regional anesthesia for postoperative pain control in abdominal transplant surgeries. The paper provides specific information on regional anesthesia in liver, kidney, pancreas, intestinal, and uterus transplants. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Bhaikaka University in Gujarat, India, examined the level of cognitive domains and the weightage of various topics in the undergraduate summative examination question paper of community medicine. The study found that the cognitive domains assessed in the subject across all five universities were unsatisfactory, and the weightage of marks allotted to topics varied. The researchers concluded that there is a need to develop a question paper plan that facilitates a systematic distribution based on different levels of cognitive domains and topics. This study provides new insights into the assessment methods used in community medicine education. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand, has explored the use of molecularly imprinted polymer paper-based analytical devices (MIP-PADs) for biomarker detection. MIP-PADs have the potential to improve the selectivity and specificity of paper-based analytical devices, making them more effective in complex analysis conditions and samples. The study highlights the fabrication and characterization processes of MIP-PADs, discusses their applications in biological samples, and evaluates their potential for commercialization. This research is the first of its kind to assess MIP-PADs for biomarker analysis. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Mustansiriyah University in Baghdad, Iraq have developed a spectrophotometric method and a paper-based microfluidic device for the quantitative determination of Amoxicillin in pure form and pharmaceutical preparations. The detection method involves a coupling reaction of Amoxicillin with diazotized sulfadimidine in an alkaline medium, and the reaction product is measured at a specific wavelength. The paper-based microfluidic device can be used for the semi-quantitative determination of Amoxicillin in pure solution and commercial pharmaceutical products for rapid screening. This research provides a low-cost and portable method for analyzing active pharmaceutical ingredients in the pharmaceutical industry. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University Hospital Center in Lisbon, Portugal, highlights the importance of addressing coronary and structural heart disease in cancer patients. While there has been increased awareness of cardiotoxicity in cancer patients, the focus has primarily been on myocardial systolic dysfunction and heart failure. Limited evidence and guidelines exist for dealing with coronary and structural heart disease in this population. To address this gap, the Portuguese Association of Cardiovascular Intervention and the Cardio-Oncology Study Group of the Portuguese Society of Cardiology have collaborated to produce a position paper on cardiac intervention in cancer patients, with a focus on percutaneous techniques. The paper provides a brief review of available evidence and practical considerations based on the authors' experience in the field. [Extracted from the article]

A new clinical proceedings paper from the Clinical Neurological Society of America highlights the underrecognition of a neurological emergency called Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus (NCSE). Unlike convulsive seizures, NCSE does not exhibit clear motor symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose and treat. This delay in treatment increases the risk of morbidity and mortality, with adults experiencing NCSE without convulsions having significantly higher mortality rates. The paper emphasizes the importance of using EEGs for proper diagnosis and emergency monitoring of NCSE. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by Philip Morris USA Inc. has been made available online, detailing the invention of banded papers and smoking articles. The application explains that the invention aims to reduce the incidence of accidental fires caused by untended smoking articles. The invention focuses on reducing the Ignition Propensity (IP) value and increasing the Self-Extinction (SE) value of smoking articles. The application describes the testing methods for IP and SE values and discusses the use of an aqueous starch solution with an anti-wrinkling agent to achieve the desired results. The invention also includes patterns and characteristics for the add-on material used in the wrapper paper. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Beijing Normal University explores the use of drawing paper as a therapeutic tool in drama counseling. The study focuses on a case study involving a Chinese primary school student who used drawing paper as a stage to act out a drama, allowing for emotional catharsis and expression. The research suggests that this approach could lead to a new therapeutic model in individual mental health counseling. The study also highlights the cultural significance of the drawing in drama counseling model within the Chinese culture. For more information, the full article can be accessed through the provided link. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shanghai Ocean University have developed a cost-effective and portable microfluidic paper-based sensor for the simultaneous and rapid detection of glucose, free amino acids, and vitamin C in fruits. The sensor, constructed using a poly(carboxybetaine acrylamide)-modified cellulose paper chip, demonstrated the ability to detect these nutrients in different colors within distinct detection zones. The use of stable silver nanoparticles for glucose detection improved sensitivity, with detection limits of 0.049 mmol/L for glucose, 0.236 mmol/L for free amino acids, and 0.125 mmol/L for vitamin C. The researchers believe that this paper-based colorimetric device could provide technical support for the nutritional value assessment of fruits. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Chaudhary Charan Singh University in India have developed a paper-based analytical device for the early detection of ovarian cancer. The device uses silver nanoparticles coated on paper to detect lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a biomarker for ovarian cancer, through surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The study found that patients with ovarian cancer had higher levels of LPA compared to those with benign ovarian tumors or healthy individuals. The researchers believe that this point-of-care device could be a simple, effective, and cost-effective tool for early diagnosis of ovarian cancer. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University at Buffalo found that people with opioid use disorder who also have hepatitis C virus (HCV) were twice as likely to be successfully treated and cured from HCV if they received telemedicine treatment at their opioid treatment program (OTP) rather than being referred off-site. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), is one of the few randomized controlled trials that have examined the effectiveness of telemedicine in improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations. The researchers found that 90.3% of participants in the telemedicine arm were cured of HCV infection compared to 39.4% of participants referred to an off-site specialist. The use of telemedicine also resulted in subsequent improvements in health and well-being for participants, including reductions in substance use. The study suggests that telemedicine should be further explored as an approach to increase healthcare access for underserved populations with other health conditions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent article in Blood Weekly highlights the growing importance of advanced robotics and tissue engineering in the field of biomedical research. Robotic systems have traditionally played a role in nurturing tissue growth in controlled environments, but recent advancements in soft robots and biomimetic robots offer new possibilities for enhancing tissue engineering. These robots can provide realistic mechanical stimulation to grafts and implants, potentially accelerating their clinical implementation and deepening our understanding of biological tissues. The article calls for researchers to share their latest breakthroughs in this field, with topics ranging from smart scaffolds to biohybrid and biomimetic robots. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Vellore Institute of Technology in Tamil Nadu, India, explores the concept of biographical renewal in cancer survivorship. The study highlights the positive transformations that can occur after cancer and emphasizes the importance of considering biographical renewal as a goal in survivorship care plans. The researchers suggest that healthcare professionals, caregivers, and palliative care providers should strive to foster an understanding of biographical renewal to provide comprehensive care and improve patients' quality of life. The study's findings are published in the Indian Journal of Palliative Care. [Extracted from the article]

Queen's University researchers have developed an educational resource for gynecological cancer survivors and their caregivers. The resource was created through a patient-clinician-researcher partnership and involved five phases, including assembling expertise, reviewing literature, drafting the resource, testing it, and disseminating it. The researchers used diverse partnerships and multiple research methods to create a resource that fills a procedural gap for clinicians and researchers looking to develop empirically and experientially founded educational resources. For more information, readers can refer to the article "Developing an educational resource for gynecological cancer survivors and their caregivers: A methods and experience paper" in the Canadian Oncology Nursing Journal. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Shanghai University in China has developed a simple and affordable paper analytical device for on-site detection of lead (Pb). The device utilizes a visual distance-based method to detect Pb by inhibiting the catalytic activity of G-quadruplex/hemin DNAzyme induced by potassium (K+). The device has been optimized to detect Pb concentrations ranging from 0.02 μM to 50 μM, with a lowest detection limit of 1 nM. The researchers believe that this device could be particularly useful for detecting heavy metal ions in resource-limited areas. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Aquila in L'Aquila, Italy, compared the accuracy of nursing diagnoses using a computerized system versus a traditional paper-based approach. The study found that the computer-based system resulted in significantly higher accuracy in solving cancer and stroke clinical scenarios, but no significant difference in acute myocardial infarction scenarios. The use of the electronic system also increased the number of correct diagnostic indicators. However, the study highlighted the need to make electronic documentation systems more user-friendly. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in CIN Computers Informatics Nursing. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City compared the use of electronic informed consent (eIC) to traditional paper consent in clinical trials. The study found that eIC did not increase the burden of technology, supported comparable comprehension of the consent process, upheld participant agency, and increased completion of required consent fields. Participants reported that eIC was easy to use and generated positive feedback regarding the thoroughness of the discussion and professionalism of the consenters. The findings suggest that offering eIC for clinical research discussions can enhance the participant experience and improve the completeness of the consent process. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Yangzhou University in China have developed a new method for detecting tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (T-EVs) using a paper-based lipid bilayer magnetic interface. T-EVs are important biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy response, but traditional bioassays have limited detection specificity. The new biosensor combines the use of magnetic beads covered with liposome bilayers and aptamers to isolate and amplify the signals of T-EVs. The biosensor demonstrated high sensitivity, with a detection limit as low as 5.0 EVs/μL, and has potential applications in predicting immunotherapy response and point-of-care disease diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Harbin Institute of Technology in Shenzhen, China, has developed a paper-based microfluidic sensor array for the discrimination of tetracycline antibiotics. The sensor array utilizes lanthanide metal-carbon quantum dots composite ink and inkjet printing technology to create a portable and cost-effective device. The platform successfully differentiated six different tetracycline antibiotics and demonstrated its practicality in real samples. This research has potential applications in disease diagnosis, food safety, and environmental contamination. [Extracted from the article]