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Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have been fabricated in various ways to improve flexibility. Flexibility could be enhanced via active materials, separators, electrodes, and electrolytes, which could then be integrated to form flexible electronic devices with promising electrochemical properties compared to traditional non-flexible Li-ion batteries. Recent progress towards flexible Li- ion batteries fabrication, materials, and their electrochemical properties are investigated in this review. Additionally, recent developments in electronic devices utilizing flexible batteries and their future applications are explored. Portable and wearable electronics, as the primary beneficiaries of the flexible, rechargeable, and high-performance Li-ion batteries, are examined. In the end, various applications and challenges of flexible batteries in healthcare and various energy storage systems, considering practical implementation, are argued.

The built environment of an older person’s home can reduce or promote the possibility of a fall or other injury. A user-friendly tool can help the residents to evaluate their home environment withi...

Development of paper-based microfluidic devices that perform colorimetric measurements requires quantitative image analysis. Because the design geometries of paper-based microfluidic devices are not standardized, conventional methods for performing batch measurements of regularly spaced areas of signal intensity, such as those for well plates, cannot be used to quantify signal from most of these devices. To streamline the device development process, we have developed an open-source program called ColorScan that can automatically recognize and measure signal-containing zones from images of devices, regardless of output zone geometry or spatial arrangement. This program, which measures color intensity with the same accuracy as standard manual approaches, can rapidly process scanned device images, simultaneously measure identified output zones, and effectively manage measurement results to eliminate requirements for time-consuming and user-dependent image processing procedures.

This work describes the log-MAP (BCJR) algorithm implementation of a close to capacity dirty paper coding CODEC. The CODEC consists of eight deep pipeline processors. It decodes blocks of 975 bits in 26.9 ms using less than 9.7% of low-cost FPGA (and no DSP blocks). Two pipelines, for alpha and beta, calculate the values of gamma (of the BCJR) to reduce the storage requirements. The final log-likelihood ratio (LLR) is calculated together with alpha, reusing intermediate results. The number of bits used by the different signals of the processor is easily configurable. It was set to six bits to the channel measure signals and eight bits to log of probability signals like alpha, beta, and others. The CODEC clock was 100 MHz. The achieved bit rate is 36.2 Kbps per CODEC, but multiple CODECs can be fit into a single chip. The CODEC is 3.49 dB from the channel capacity.

PurposeCorrect and well-planned maintenance based on modern global methods directly affects efficiency, quality, direct production costs, reliability and profitability. The selection of an optimal policy for maintenance can be a good solution for industrial units. In fact, by managing constraints such as costs, working hours and human workforce causing sudden equipment failure, production and performance can increase.Design/methodology/approachTherefore, in this research a model was presented to select the best maintenance strategy at Kaghaz Kar Kasra Co of Iran. In this study, it was tried to integrate the two techniques of goal programming and the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) to prioritize maintenance strategies. First, all factors affecting maintenance were identified, and based on the Best Worst Method (BWM) the degree of their importance was determined.FindingsAfter the evaluation, only 14 criteria in the 4 dimensions of cost, added value, safety and feasibility were selected. The highest points were given to the criteria of equipment cost and depreciation, equipment and personnel performance, equipment installation time and technical feasibility, respectively. In the next stage, using the TOPSIS method the item of maintenance strategy was ranked, and the 3 strategies of preventive maintenance (PM), predictive maintenance (PDM) and corrective maintenance (CM) were chosen. Modeling was performed utilizing a goal programming approach to select the optimal maintenance strategy for 13 devices. All the technical specifications, cost limits and the device time were extracted. After the model was finished and solved the best item for each device was specified.Originality/value1. Developing a goal programming model and decision-making dashboard. 2. Identifying the criteria and factors affecting the selection of the maintenance strategy for paper production Industry

An evaluation for the development of a paper-based test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for English Education Department students at one of the colleges in Langsa, Aceh, Indonesia, is necessary, considering their unsatisfactory scores even though the preparation program has been conducted. This research employed context, input, process, and product (CIPP) model developed by Stufflebeam upon the program. Methodologically, interviews, questionnaires, and observation were executed to five TOEFL lecturers and 34 students, while the data obtained were analyzed with the qualitative analysis method of Miles and Huberman. Based on the evaluation of context, the program had an appropriate background, goals, and objectives. Regarding the input, it still had problems related to the availability of resources and facilities. There were no standardized learning materials available, including the broken language laboratory. It affected the process since the lecturers could not maximize the facilities to create an effective learning environment. Eventually, it affected the product since most students could not reach an expected score. Most of the participants agreed that the program needed to be improved. Several improvements can be made to overcome these problems by providing required learning facilities, designing standardized learning materials, and clustering classes in accordance with students’ abilities.

Advancements in technology have led to the use of smartphones as biosensor detectors. However, it is difficult to obtain stable color information of colorimetric sensors using multiple smartphones owing to different light conditions and image correction operations. In this study, we attempted color detection of the colorimetric paper chip using smartphone-embedded light-emitting diode (LED) and simple transformation calculation. This method enables the acquisition of stable color information using different smartphones by reducing the influence of external light sources. Moreover, we studied characteristics such as convergence and distinction of detection result details by the manufacturers and smartphones. These findings suggested the necessity of classification criteria for the use of smartphones to achieve optimal detection. In addition, white and black references were used to set the standard for color correction of various light sources. Based on our results, we conclude that this approach presents the possibility of smartphone-based colorimetric detection in practical applications.

Directed evolution has become an important method to unleash the latent potential of enzymes to make them uniquely suited for human purposes. However, the need for a large reagent volume and sophisticated instrumentation hampers its broad implementation. In an attempt to address this problem, here we report a paper-based high-throughput screening approach that should find broad application in generating desired enzymes. As an example case, the dehalogenation reaction of the halohydrin dehalogenase was adopted for assay development. In addition to visual detection, quantitative measurements were performed by measuring the color intensity of an image that was photographed by a smartphone and processed using ImageJ free software. The proposed method was first validated using a gold standard method and then applied to mutagenesis library screening with reduced consumption of reagents (i.e., ≤ 10 μl per assay) and a shorter assay time. We identified two active mutants (P135A and G137A) with improved activities toward four tested substrates. The assay not only consumes less reagents but also eliminates the need for expensive instrumentation. The proposed method demonstrates the potential of paper-based whole-cell screening coupled with digital image colorimetry as a promising approach for the discovery of industrially important enzymes.Key Points• A frugal method was developed for directed enzyme evolution.• Mutagenesis libraries were successfully screened on a paper platform.• Smartphone imaging was efficiently used to measure enzyme activities.

The paper presents the results of the analysis on measured parameters of harmonics at the node of the high-voltage network. The measurements were made at the node connecting the pulp-and-paper mill to the 220 kV supply network. This load is nonlinear and has a large capacity. Particular attention is paid to the distributions of the current and voltage harmonics. The paper clearly shows probabilistic properties of the measured parameters of harmonics

Researchers face difficulties in finding relevant papers to their research interest as the number of scientific publication is rapidly increasing on the web. Scientific paper recommenders have emerged as a leading solution to help researchers by automatically suggesting relevant and useful publications. Several approaches have been proposed on improving recommender systems. However, most existing approaches depend on priori user profiles, and thus they cannot recommend papers to new user. Furthermore, the existing approaches utilize non-public contextual information, and thus it cannot adequately find similarities between papers due to copyright restrictions. Also, the existing approaches consider only single level paper-citation relation to identify similarities between papers. Considering the above challenges, this paper presents a collaborative filtering based recommendation approach for scientific papers that does not depend on priori user profiles and which utilizes only public contextual information. Using citation context, we utilized 2-level paper-citation relations to find hidden associations between papers. The rational underlying this approach is that, two papers are co-occurred with same cited paper(s) and two papers are co-occurring with same citing paper(s) are significantly similar to some extent. To evaluate the performance of the proposed approach, publicly available datasets are used to conduct extensive experiments. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach has significantly outperforms the baseline approaches in terms of precision, recall, F1, mean average precision, and mean reciprocal rank, which are commonly used information retrieval metrics. The novelty of this study is that, with the proposed approach, researchers are able to find relevant and useful publications over the internet regardless of their previous research experiences and research area.

In paper production, a jumbo reel is cut into multiple intermediate rolls, and each intermediate roll is then sheeted as finished goods. This problem is called a cutting stock problem and is proven to be NP-hard. The objective is to minimize material waste or trim loss from all the cuttings. In the case that any intermediate roll is not entirely used for its associated order, the intermediate roll itself could turn to be a dead stock. We use the concept of universal sizes of intermediate rolls to eliminate the dead stock. A pre-defined number of universal sizes of intermediate rolls is to be used to serve all the orders. The problem is solved using Reinforcement Artificial Bee Colony algorithm with Integer Linear Programming subroutine. This proposed approach is then tested with a set of 1,055 orders and 127 different sizes of sheet papers from a paper manufacturer. The results reveal that our method outperforms other algorithms. Our method offers the total trim loss of 3.51%, compared to the trim loss reported by the industry of at least 5%. This approach not only reduces the number of partially cut rolls, but also decreases the number of the jumbo reels needed to serve all the orders. Therefore, both the inventory cost and material cost can be saved.

Introduction:The Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon is in the process of converting the surveillance reporting from a cumbersome paper-based system to a web-based electronic platform (DHIS-2) to have real-time information for early detection of alerts and outbreaks and for initiating a prompt response.Objectives:This paper aimed to document the Lebanese experience in implementing DHIS-2 for the disease surveillance system. It also targets to assess the improvement of reporting rates and timeliness of the reported data and to disclose the encountered challenges and opportunities. MethodologyThis is a retrospective description of processes involved in the implementation of the DHIS-2 tool in Lebanon. Initially, it was piloted for the school-based surveillance in 2014; then its use was extended in May 2017 to cover other specific surveillance systems. This included all surveillance programs collecting aggregate data from hospitals, medical centers, dispensaries, or laboratories at the first stage. As part of the national roll-out process, the online application was developed. The customized aggregated-based datasets, organization units, user accounts, specific and generic dashboards were generated. More than 80 training sessions were conducted throughout the country targeting 1290 end-users including health officers at the national and provincial levels, focal persons working in all public and private hospitals, laboratories, and medical centers as well. Completeness and timeliness of reported data were compared before and after the implementation of DHIS-2. Challenges and lessons learned during the roll-out process are listed.ResultsFor laboratory-based surveillance, completeness of reporting increased from 70.8% in May to 89.6% in October. Timeliness has improved from 25% to 74%. For medical centers, an improvement of 8.1% for completeness and 9.4% in timeliness was recorded before and after training sessions. For zero reporting, completeness remains the same (88%) and timeliness has improved from 74% to 87%. The main challenges faced during the implementation of DHIS-2 were mainly infrastructural and system-related in addition to poor internet connectivity and limited workforce and frequent changes to DHIS-2 versions.ConclusionImplementation of DHIS-2 improved timeliness and completeness for aggregated data reporting. Continued on-site support, monitoring, and system enhancement are needed to improve the performance of DHIS-2.

The accuracy of a predictive system is critical for predictive maintenance and to support the right decisions at the right times. Statistical models, such as ARIMA and SARIMA, are unable to describe the stochastic nature of the data. Neural networks, such as long short-term memory (LSTM) and the gated recurrent unit (GRU), are good predictors for univariate and multivariate data. The present paper describes a case study where the performances of long short-term memory and gated recurrent units are compared, based on different hyperparameters. In general, gated recurrent units exhibit better performance, based on a case study on pulp paper presses. The final result demonstrates that, to maximize the equipment availability, gated recurrent units, as demonstrated in the paper, are the best options.

When presented with technical topics, undergraduate accounting students can be overwhelmed by information transmitted in a pure lecture format. Further, a lecture format does not allow for much student interaction or enable learning of higher-level skills that could be useful if the underlying content is changed by future regulations. Position paper instructional tools could be a beneficial alternative. A position paper can bring out students' soft skills of communication and critical thinking by making them take a stand, which is key for tax professionals and accountants generally. Since class meeting time is limited and face-to-face interactions are not always possible, a written position paper provides an alternative that can benefit students' understanding of technical information.

The low cost, simplicity, and ease of use of paper microfluidic devices have made them valuable medical diagnostics for applications from pregnancy testing to COVID-19 screening. Meanwhile, the increasing complexity of paper-based microfluidic devices is driving the need to produce new tools and methodologies that enable more robust biological diagnostics and potential therapeutic applications. A new design framework is being used to facilitate both research and fabrication of paper-based microfluidic biological devices to accelerate the investigative process and reduce material utilization and manpower. In this work we present a methodology for this framework to dynamically place and route microfluidic components in a nondiscrete design space where fluid volume usage, surface area utilization, and the timing required to perform specified biological assays are accounted for and optimized while also accelerating the development of potentially lifesaving new devices.

In simple dyadic games such as rock, paper, scissors (RPS), people exhibit peculiar sequential dependencies across repeated interactions with a stable opponent. These regularities seem to arise from a mutually adversarial process of trying to outwit their opponent. What underlies this process, and what are its limits? Here, we offer a novel framework for formally describing and quantifying human adversarial reasoning in the rock, paper, scissors game. We first show that this framework enables a precise characterization of the complexity of patterned behaviors that people exhibit themselves, and appear to exploit in others. This combination allows for a quantitative understanding of human opponent modeling abilities. We apply these tools to an experiment in which people played 300 rounds of RPS in stable dyads. We find that although people exhibit very complex move dependencies, they cannot exploit these dependencies in their opponents, indicating a fundamental limitation in people’s capacity for adversarial reasoning. Taken together, the results presented here show how the rock, paper, scissors game allows for precise formalization of human adaptive reasoning abilities.

Analysis of roll products at the final stage of production is the main stage for identifying defects, disrupted integrity or homogeneity, etc. Paper production is a typical example of such an operation in an industrial setting. It is proposed to use the results of the assessment for opacity, described by several standardized and statistical estimates, as the main characteristic for the quality of paper products. Studies of the dependence of the quality of the paper web on the production conditions and the properties of raw materials produce considerable variance, so that it is impossible to make accurate predictions. For this reason, we used a neural network modeling technology to develop an intelligent system for monitoring the quality of the paper web. Online quality control allows to assess the efficiency of the paper machine and rapidly adjust the manufacturing execution system. Special technologies such as computer vision systems can be introduced for this purpose, making it possible to make a transition from subjective assessment of the structure and defects of the paper web to obtaining objective quantitative estimates of these indicators. We considered a procedure for determining the estimates of structural heterogeneity of the paper web at the final stage of its production. We suggest to expand the classification of finished product samples by using neural fuzzy interpolation of linguistic values of such indicators. The approach introduced is aimed at improving the efficiency of the production process.

The current study revolves around development of paper from dhaincha fiber (Sesbania aculeata). Dhaincha is a basically cultivated for improvisation of soil quality. Due to deforestation worldwide, various sources of raw materials are used in paper industries. Indian pulp and paper industry is the world's major paper industry. In this study extraction of dhaincha fiber was done followed by retting, combing, chemical analysis and by making of pulp with dhaincha fiber. The dhaincha pulp was then used for making a paper from dhaincha fiber. The thickness of the dhaincha paper was then tested with paper thickness tester. By doing further processing dhaincha paper can be used commercially by paper industry.

The importance of user-friendly, inexpensive, sensitive, and selective detection of viruses has been highlighted again due to the recent Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Among the analytical tools, paper-based devices (PADs) have become a leading alternative for point-of-care (POC) testing. In this review, we discuss the recent development strategies and applications in nucleic acid-based, antibody/antigen-based and other affinity-based PADs using optical and electrochemical detection methods for sensing viruses. In addition, advantages and drawbacks of presented PADs are identified. Current state and insights towards future perspectives are presented regarding developing POC diagnosis platform for COVID-19. This review considers state-of-the-art technologies for further development and improvement in PADs performance for virus detection., Graphical abstract Image 1

The NIST selection process for standardizing Post-Quantum Cryptography Mechanisms is currently running. Many papers already studied their theoretical security, but the resistance in deployed device has not been much investigated so far. In particular, fault attack is a serious threat for algorithms implemented in embedded devices. One particularly powerful technique is to use safe-error attacks. Such attacks exploit the fact that a specific fault may or may not lead to a faulty output depending on a secret value. In this paper, we investigate the resistance of various Post-Quantum candidates algorithms against such attacks.

Among the various non-convectional energy resources, solar energy has great potential when it comes to conversion into electrical power.Increases efficiency of solar system is desirable for maximum power output.In order to maximisepower output, needs to keep the panels in proper angle with the sun.This paper deal with the generation using solar powerby window blinds.The proposed system ensures the optimization of the conversion of solar energy into electricity by properly orienting the panel in accordance with the position of the sun south facing window.

The fast detection of trace amounts of hazardous contaminations can prevent serious damage to the environment. Paper-based sensors offer a new perspective on the world of analytical methods, overcoming previous limitations by fabricating a simple device with valuable benefits such as flexibility, biocompatibility, disposability, biodegradability, easy operation, large surface-to-volume ratio, and cost-effectiveness. Depending on the performance type, the device can be used to analyze the analyte in the liquid or vapor phase. For liquid samples, various structures (including a dipstick, as well as microfluidic and lateral flow) have been constructed. Paper-based 3D sensors are prepared by gluing and folding different layers of a piece of paper, being more user-friendly, due to the combination of several preparation methods, the integration of different sensor elements, and the connection between two methods of detection in a small set. Paper sensors can be used in chromatographic, electrochemical, and colorimetric processes, depending on the type of transducer. Additionally, in recent years, the applicability of these sensors has been investigated in various applications, such as food and water quality, environmental monitoring, disease diagnosis, and medical sciences. Here, we review the development (from 2010 to 2021) of paper methods in the field of the detection and determination of toxic substances.

In recent years, microfluidic lab-on-paper devices have emerged as a rapid and low-cost alternative to traditional laboratory tests. Additionally, they were widely considered as a promising solution for point-of-care testing (POCT) at home or regions that lack medical infrastructure and resources. This review describes important advances in microfluidic lab-on-paper diagnostics for human health monitoring and disease diagnosis over the past five years. The review commenced by explaining the choice of paper, fabrication methods, and detection techniques to realize microfluidic lab-on-paper devices. Then, the sample pretreatment procedure used to improve the detection performance of lab-on-paper devices was introduced. Furthermore, an in-depth review of lab-on-paper devices for disease measurement based on an analysis of urine samples was presented. The review concludes with the potential challenges that the future development of commercial microfluidic lab-on-paper platforms for human disease detection would face.

The development of diagnostic tools for measuring a wide spectrum of target analytes, from biomarkers to other biochemical parameters in biological fluids, has experienced a significant growth in the last decades, with a good number of such tools entering the market. Recently, a clear focus has been put on miniaturized wearable devices, which offer powerful capabilities for real-time and continuous analysis of biofluids, mainly sweat, and can be used in athletics, consumer wellness, military, and healthcare applications. Sweat is an attractive biofluid in which different biomarkers could be noninvasively measured to provide rapid information about the physical state of an individual. Wearable devices reported so far often provide discrete (single) measurements of the target analytes, most of them in the form of a yes/no qualitative response. However, quantitative biomarker analysis over certain periods of time is highly demanded for many applications such as the practice of sports or the precise control of the patient status in hospital settings. For this, a feasible combination of fluidic elements and sensor architectures has been sought. In this regard, this paper shows a concise overview of analytical tools based on the use of capillary-driven fluidics taking place on paper or fabric devices integrated with solid-state sensors fabricated by thick film technologies. The main advantages and limitations of the current technologies are pointed out together with the progress towards the development of functional devices. Those approaches reported in the last decade are examined in detail.

Bacillus cereus is one of the most common foodborne pathogens found in various kinds of staple foods such as rice and wheat. A rapid and accurate detection method for this pathogen is highly desirable for the sustainable production of relevant food products. While several classical and molecular-based detection methods are available for the identification of B. cereus, they suffered one or more limitations such as the requirement for a tedious and time-consuming process, less than ideal specificity, and the lack of portability. Herein, we developed the first paper-based sensing device that exhibits high species specificity with sufficiently low limit of detection for the visual detection of specific DNA sequences of B. cereus. The success is attributed to the strategic planning of fabrication in various dimensions including thorough bioinformatics search for highly specific genes, the use of the pyrrolidinyl peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probe whose selectivity advantage is well documented, and an effective PNA immobilization and DNA-binding visualization method with an internal cross-checking system for validating the results. Testing in rice matrices indicates that the sensor is capable of detecting and distinguishing B. cereus from other bacterial species. Hence, this paper-based sensor has potential to be adopted as a practical means to detect B. cereus in food industries.

The clinical importance of blood group (BG) antigens is related to their ability to induce immune antibodies that can cause hemolysis. Yet, ABO and D (Rh) are still considered to be the key antigens for healthy blood transfusion and secondary antigens are the next priority. Serological typing is the most widely used typing method. Rapid and accurate blood grouping plays an important role in some clinical conditions, rather than conventional techniques. Hence, developing a simple and economical model for rapid blood grouping would facilitate these tests. In recent decades, paper-based microfluidics such as μPADs has gained much interest in wide application areas such as point-of-care diagnostic. In this study, we evaluated μPADs that are performed for blood grouping and its recent progress. A comprehensive literature search was performed using databases including PUBMED, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Keywords were blood grouping or typing, paper analytical device, rapid test, etc. After investigation of search results, 16 papers from 2010 to 2020 were included. Further information in detail was classified in Table 1. Generally, two principles for blood typing μPADs are introduced. The lateral chromatographic flow method and the vertical flow-through method that detects BG in a visual-based manner. To detect results with acceptable clarity many factors and challenges like paper, blood sample, buffer, Ab and RBC interaction and also μPADs stability need to be considered, which are discussed. In conclusion, the simplicity, stability, cheapness, portability and biocompatibility of μPADs for blood grouping confirming its utility and also they have the capability to robust, universal blood-grouping platform. Table 1 Summary of blood grouping tests using paper-based analytical devices Antigens Type of diagnosis Validation method Sample No Accuracy Action time Paper type Stability Sample dilution Buffer Ref A, B, Rh Forward volunteers records 5 - - Whatman No. 4 - 1/2 PBS* (Khan et al. 2010) A, B, Rh Forward gel assay test and conventional slide test 100 100% 1 min Whatman No. 4 and Kleeenex paper towel 7 Days in 4 °C 1/1 NSS (Al-Tamimi et al. 2012) A, B, Rh Forward gel card assay 99 100% 20 Sec + Washing Kleeenex paper towel - 1/1 NSS (Li et al. 2012) A, B, Rh Forward - - - - Kleeenex paper towel - 45/100 PSS (Li et al. 2013) A, B, Rh Forward gel card assay 98 100% 1.5 min Kleeenex paper towel - 85/100 PBS (Guan et al. 2014b) C, E, c, e, K, Jka, Jkb, M, N, S, P1, and Lea Forward gel card assay 266 100% - Kleeenex paper towel - 1/1 NSS (Li et al. 2014b) A, B, Rh Forward and Reverse conventional slide test 96 ≈ 91% 10 min Whatman No. 1 21 Days in 4 °C 1/2 NSS (Noiphung et al. 2015) C, c, E, e, K, k, Fya, Fyb, Jka, Jkb, M, N, S and s, P1, Lea and Leb Forward - 478 - - Kleeenex paper towel - 1/1 NSS, PBS (Then et al. 2015) A, B Forward and Reverse conventional slide test 76 100% 5-8 min Whatman No. 4 38 Days in 4 °C 1/4, 1/1 NSS (Songjaroen and Laiwattanapaisal 2016) D, K Forward volunteers records 210 - 7.5 min Kleenex paper towel - 1/1 NSS (Yeow et al. 2016) A, B, c, e, D, C, E, M, N, S, s, P1, Jka, Jkb, Lea, Leb, Fya, and Fyb Forward and Reverse gel card assay 3550 ≈100% 30 s Fiber glass and cotton linter 180 Days in 25 °C 45/100, 1/1 PBS (Zhang et al. 2017) A, B Forward conventional slide test 598 100% 3 min Whatman No. 113 14 Day in 4 °C 1/1 NSS (Songjaroen et al. 2018) A, B, Rh Forward conventional slide test - - 30 Sec + Washing Unrefined sisal paper - 1/2 NSS (Casals-Terré et al. 2019) A, B, Rh Forward - - - - Whatman No.1 - 1/1 NSS (Ansari et al. 2020) ABORh Forward and Reverse conventional slide test - 100% Unrefined Eucalyptus papers - 1/2 NSS, PBS (Casals-Terré et al. 2020) A, B, Rh Forward - - - 30 Sec + Washing Whatman No. 4 modified with chitosan ≥ 100 days in 25 °C 1/1 NSS (Parween et al. 2020)

Paper aims This study identifies fundamental characteristics for developing a paper-based thesis (PBT), providing some recommendations to researchers who decide for this academic research report. Originality This paper contributes to the literature by providing guidance to develop PBTs, which has been attracting researchers' interest because it demonstrates publication capacity and potential as a researcher. Additionally, it is still not entirely clear which issues and countermeasures researchers should address when choosing the paper-based structure. Research method The authors searched for articles of PBTs already published, institutional documents (e.g., regulations for conducting PBTs in Brazil and abroad) and journal papers concerning this subject. A content and document analysis were conducted in the papers and PBT internal regulations, respectively. Main findings Results indicate five main factors that impact the success of a PBT approach: (i) the initial planning for this academic model; (ii) alignment between the articles and the thesis/dissertation; (iii) research design construction; (iv) copyrights requirements; and (v) issues regarding co-authorship. Based on that, the study also builds some guidelines to structure a robust PBT. Implications for theory and practice Our recommendations might be meaningful to scholars and researchers bring more theoretical, empirical, and structural robustness when developing a PBT final document.

Since the introduction of paper-based analytical devices as potential diagnostic platforms a few decades ago, huge efforts have been made in this field to develop systems suitable for meeting the requirements for the point-of-care (POC) approach. Considerable progress has been achieved in the adaptation of existing analysis methods to a paper-based format, especially considering the chemiluminescent (CL)-immunoassays-based techniques. The implementation of biospecific assays with CL detection and paper-based technology represents an ideal solution for the development of portable analytical devices for on-site applications, since the peculiarities of these features create a unique combination for fitting the POC purposes. Despite this, the scientific production is not paralleled by the diffusion of such devices into everyday life. This review aims to highlight the open issues that are responsible for this discrepancy and to find the aspects that require a focused and targeted research to make these methods really applicable in routine analysis.

This white paper explores the considerations of standards-based interoperability of medical images between organizations, patients, and providers. In this paper, we will look at three different standards-based image exchange implementations that have been deployed to facilitate exchange of images between provider organizations. The paper will describe how each implementation uses applicable technology and standards; the image types that are included; and the governance policies that define participation, access, and trust. Limitations of the solution or non-standard approaches to solve challenges will also be identified. Much can be learned from successes elsewhere, and those learnings will point to recommendations of best practices to facilitate the adoption of image exchange.

Background In recent times, the use of thermal papers has increased exponentially and the fingerprints on thermal papers are frequently encountered. Although fingerprint development on paper has been standardized, that on thermal paper is complicated. Thermal papers turn black on the application of heat which poses a problem in the visualization of fingerprints which makes it difficult to visualize. Main body One solution to this problem is to use heat or steam for the development of white fingerprints on darker backgrounds. Second solution might be to dissolve the chemicals present on the surface of the thermal papers using acetone. Many studies to develop fingerprints on thermal papers using iodine fuming, ninhydrin, 1,8-diazofluorene-9-one, and p-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde have been performed. In the present review, an attempt has been made to summarize the problem posed to fingerprint development on thermal papers and the probable solutions attempted by different authors. Conclusion Although the development of fingerprints is difficult on thermal papers, it can be achieved either by subjecting the thermal paper to controlled heat or by removing the temperature-sensitive layer before treating it with other fingerprint development methods.

The recycling of waste paper has been an effective way to achieve the environmental-friendly growth of papermaking industry. Focusing on the mixed-pulping process which has been generally employed, to ensure the required properties of the deinking pulp (DIP) and minimize the purchase cost of waste paper, an intelligent model scheduling the mixing ratio of waste paper was developed in the study. Primarily, driven by the field data of mixing ratio of waste paper and DIP properties, the prediction models of DIP properties were developed by SVM, GA-SVM, and BP-NN algorithms. Subsequently, based on the best prediction model, the scheduling model for the mixing ratio of waste paper was set up by NSGAII algorithm. The experimental results showed that, based on the obtained best BP-NN prediction model of DIP properties, the developed NSGAII scheduling model for the ratio of waste paper could achieve excellent scheduling results under the rigorous constraints and multi-objective. Compared with the previous study, the developed prediction and scheduling models in this study reduced the purchase cost of waste paper by 2.16%, and improved the acceptable proportion of DIP property from 56.07% to 100%.

In education quality assurance, the accuracy of test data is crucial. However, there is still a problem regarding to the possibility of incorrect data filled by test taker during paper-based test. On the contrary, this problem does not appear in computer-based test. In this study, a method was proposed in order to analyze the accuracy of answer sheet filling out in paper-based test using data mining technique. A single layer of data comprehension was added within the method instead of raw data. The results of the study were a web-based program for data pre-processing and decision tree models. There were 374 instances which were analyzed. The accuracy of answer sheet filling out attained 95.19% while the accuracy of classification varied from 99.47% to 100% depend on evaluation method chosen. This study could motivate the administrators for test improvement since it preferred computer-based test to paper-based.

The paper discusses current research efforts focusing on security and privacy for 5G cellular networks. It then outlines research directions.

This study aimed to describe and test environmental problem solving ability, analyze differences in environmental problem solving ability when viewed from gender and school differences. To test the ability of students environmental problem solving, a test instrument that refers to the Sanjaya indicator in 2008 was developed. The items on the test were developed by researchers and validated by material and language experts. After revising the results of expert validation, then the environmental problem solving instrument was tested. The trial results obtained a test instrument was valid and reliable. The test was conducted on 136 students in Banjarmasin Indonesia. Quantitative data obtained from students' answers were then analyzed using non-parametric statistical tests with the assistance of SPSS 23 for Windows. The results show that: 1) the ability of students environmental problem solving was still low, 2) there is no relationship between gender differences and the ability of environmental problem solving. 3) There is no relationship between school differences and problem solving abilities. The result of study suggests further researchers need to facilitate students through teaching materials in the implementation of learning and improve student activity in learning to increase environmental problem solving ability

Today with the enormously increasing and the advancing technologies the need of the automation has been reached to a great extent and will further increase in the future. Therefore, in this view our research work deals with the design, testing and implementation of cost-effective CNC based PCB Milling Machine which can be deployed in small scale industries and most targeted areas like academicinstitutions(engineering) toencourage self-designing of electronic circuits among students. Technically the control mechanism is sole work of AT Mega 328P Arduino microcontroller with auxiliary drivers which help in precise step control of stepper motors whose rotational movement appears as a controlled linear motion of x, y& z-axis each deployed with this motor. The input signal in form of design, picture is interpreted in form of G-codes through dedicated firmware which are installed in the Arduino Programming IDE to help generate the actuating signals proportional to the interpolating situations. This paper discusses about the additional feature of human safety system using IR sensors which are employed around the periphery of the working area.

Purpose/audience: this study targets designers, clinicians and biomedical engineers who are involved in digital surgical planning and patient-specific medical device design, either in hospitals, universities or companies. A commonly accepted, standardized design process does not exist in this specialized but highly variable field, and this can make regulatory compliance via the implementation of quality standards more difficult. Methodology/approach: an article-based design pro-forma was created based on needs identified in previous work. It was structured in order to broadly standardize the design process; consolidate planning and modelling behaviours into discrete clusters; anticipate decision-making on key product requirements; facilitate focused discussion with clients (surgeons); create a pleasurable experience for the designer; and encourage detailed reporting of design decisions and therefore to lower barriers to Quality Management System (QMS) implementation and adherence. The performance of the pro-forma was verified using observation, simultaneous verbalization and semi-structured interviews. Three participants across two contexts were observed designing without and then with the pro-forma. Their behaviours and comments were recorded, their designed outcomes evaluated and their quality compliance assessed. Findings: The design workflow was shown to be segmented and contained within distinct and repeatable steps when using the pro-forma. Reported participant confidence increased and stress decreased. Contact time between participants and clients was consolidated. Designed outputs and documented records successfully complied with generalizable aspects of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 13485 standard. However, it did not, and by definition could never, wholly implement a complete certifiable QMS, which must be tailored to a specific organization. Implications for practice, society or research: as demand for patient-specific devices continues to rise, and as regulatory requirements about QMS adherence extend to cover all contexts, organizations will need to react accordingly. This pro-forma offers a clear direction for how to introduce evidence-based best practices, and a starting point for full QMS certification. Originality/value: this research marks the first attempt to standardize this highly specialized design process across users, tools and contexts.

In the modern society, it is surprising to know that criminals are well equipped with novel technological facilities and they have adopted numerous methodological ways for conducting highly organized crime. Due to the immense advancement in Science and Technology, criminals are being quicker in exploiting sophisticated scientific technology for criminal activities and desires to commit crime. Hence the more complex criminal cases are gradually increasing in number and are becoming a major challenge for forensic document experts relating with paper and ink examination, such as paper analysis for differentiating between forged and originality, ascertain authenticity of paper document, its identification, relative age of documents and document dating. The present write-up is an attempt to describe overall approach in forensic examination of paper for distinguishing between two or more sets of paper. Chemical and physical analysis of paper by using appropriate scientific method provides valuable information regarding the details of the document. However application of advanced sophisticated techniques and appropriate scientific methods for reliable results without destruction of the original documents are the prime requirements of the forensic document expert and investigating agencies. Keywords: Document examination, Paper differentiation.

The spread of invasive alien plant species (IAPS) is a leading reason for worldwide environmental change due to their effects on biodiversity and humans. Some valued goods from IAPS have been produced, e.g. paper that consists of cellulose fibres from Japanese knotweed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish the usability of this paper grade as a printing substrate, since it does not have ideal optical properties as it is expected from commercial office paper. Because it is widely used, inkjet printing technology was employed. Print permanence is essential, especially when printing documents. However, typographic characteristics must be considered to make a text more legible. Two widely used typefaces (Arial and Times) were tested in three commonly used type sizes (8 pt, 10 pt, and 12 pt). The results showed that the paper made from Japanese knotweed could have valuable properties and suitable legibility, especially when using typefaces with a moderate counter size, high x-height, and minimal differences in the letter stroke width to obtain an appropriate typographic tonal density with an adequate type size. Even after exposure to light, the texts printed in a proper type size and stroke width remained visible.